Reilly intent on removing branding from cigarette packs

A study has found most smokers are likely to think about quitting every day - when they buy plain, unbranded packs of cigarettes.

The research from the British Medical Journal was carried out in Australia, which last year became the first country in the world to ban branded cigarettes.

The government here plans to follow suit - by introducing plain packaging on tobacco products in the near future.

The Health Minister James Reilly is intent on removing branding from cigarette packs sold in Ireland - he plans to introduce legislation that outlaw branded tobacco early in the next Dáil Term.

Minister Reilly said this new research from Australia proves that plain packaging - with dominant health warnings - helps cut the number of young people who take up smoking - and increases the number of smokers who give the habit up.

Researchers found that those who smoke unbranded cigarettes in Australia are 81% more likely to think about quitting at least once a day.

70% report finding unbranded tobacco less satisfying - and two thirds think their unbranded cigarettes are of poorer quality.

Welcoming the publication of the research in the British Medical Journal, Minister Reilly said it provides further evidence that plain pack cigarettes are the next step forward in tackling addiction to smoking.