Plain packets might go up in smoke

Plain packaging on cigarette boxes will not reduce smoking, despite the Irish Government’s intention to follow the UK’s lead.

Health Minister James Reilly has welcomed the publication in the UK of an independent review of the evidence for standardised tobacco packaging, and the UK government’s plan to publish regulations. Mr Reilly said this reaffirms Ireland’s commitment to standardised packaging. But no evidence has been produced that plain packaging will reduce smoking.

The latest figures from Australia indicate that tobacco usage has increased since the measure was introduced 15 months ago.