ASH calls for RTÉ vigilance on F1 tobacco ads

RTÉ CREWS covering Formula One races were last night urged to be more vigilant in policing an Irish television ban on smoking.

Anti-smoking group ASH Ireland said it was deeply concerned about saturation advertising of tobacco products during F1 broadcasts on RTÉ.

Ash Ireland administrator Valerie Coghlan said a tobacco product was being advertised virtually every second during races.

"This is entirely unacceptable, considering the Government's ban on tobacco advertising," she said.

"We know RTÉ has little control on the actual race broadcasts but in pre-race interviews, greater consid eration should be given to where people, drivers and managers are positioned."

Ms Coghlan said ASH Ireland was appealing to the Government and RTÉ to work towards screening F1 without saturation advertising of tobacco products.

According to the group, 6,000 Irish people die annually from smoking-related diseases, which also contribute significantly to the national health spend.

ASH Ireland also expressed concern over recent price rises in tobacco products not being in line with Government policy to create a smoke-free society. The group said a price increase was the most effective way of persuading smokers to quit and in discouraging people from experimenting.

ASH said: "The Government must find a mechanism which deals with the inflation fears and clears the way for significant price increases on tobacco products in the coming years."

Meanwhile, firmly supporting the planned workplace smoking ban, the group's Prof Luke Clancy said Health Minister Micheál Martin and the Government should be complimented on taking a lead role.

"With the medical evidence available, a ban was essential and inevitable if workers are to be protected," he said. "It's encouraging to note that health and safety issues took precedence over that of other vested interests."

He said ASH Ireland was entirely confident the ban will be successful despite some ridiculous predictions.

"Most people obey the law and all employers including the vintners have a responsibility to ensure the law is upheld where possible," he said. "We also hope many Irish citizens will insist on a smoke-free environment in pubs, restaurants and other workplaces now that they will have the support of legislation."

ASH Ireland said it will be urging the public, especially people in the workplace, to insist on their right to a smoke-free environment.

The group said another encouraging trend during 2003 was the reduction in smoking levels, particularly of younger age groups.