Health Minister welcomes global anti-tobacco treaty

Health Minister Micheál Martin has welcomed the adoption of an anti-tobacco treaty by the World Health Organisation.

Almost 200 nations from throughout the world approved the accord, which includes restrictions on advertising and stronger health warnings.

Speaking from WHO headquarters in Geneva, Mr Martin said today's vote showed that the entire world was committed to reducing the level of smoking-related deaths.

"We're particulary anxious to see the threat of tobacco reduced considerably. If we can reduce it globally, then obviously that has a further impact on tobacco consumption in Ireland," he said.