Free nicotine patches for smokers

Smokers on the medical card scheme are to be offered free nicotine patches and gum, according to reports.

The move is part of the ongoing anti smoking campaign by the Government.

The Minister for Health Micheal Martin believes that the cost of running the scheme will be offset by a reduction in the cost of treating smokers in hospitals.

The Government believes many smokers cannot afford the estimated £30 every two weeks it costs to replace cigarettes. The scheme is due to come into force on April 1st.

Meanwhile a decision is to be made in the coming days on whether the Irish Masters Snooker Tournament should go ahead.

It is sponsored by the Department of Health and is expected to be a launch pad for an anti-smoking publicity drive, however there are fears it could fall victim to the Foot and Mouth scare.