O’Shea Supports Tough New Measures to Curb Youth Vaping and Tackle Environmental Harm

Cork North West Fine Gael TD John Paul O’Shea is backing tough new measures to curb youth vaping and tackle environmental harm.

Deputy O’Shea has welcomed proposed legislation to regulate vaping products, saying it will help protect young people’s health and reduce the environmental damage caused by disposable vapes.

“We’ve all seen the growth of vape shops across the country, and parents are concerned about how this is impacting their children. The variety of flavours and bright packaging on vaping products is clearly aimed at making these products more attractive to our youth. It’s a cynical move to get them hooked, with vape companies targeting younger and vulnerable individuals with colourful, flavoured products designed for maximum appeal”.

Deputy O’Shea praised the new bill which is being brought forward by his Fine Gael colleague, Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, calling it a “significant and timely step” in tackling the issue. Key measures in the proposed legislation include:

• Mandatory concealment of vape products in shops, similar to existing tobacco laws.

• A complete ban on advertising in retail outlets selling vapes.

• Strict packaging and product regulations to eliminate cartoonish designs, toy-like devices, and flavoured products beyond basic options.

• A full ban on single-use (disposable) vapes to address serious environmental concerns.

• Annual licensing for retailers selling nicotine inhaling products, with required compliance declarations.

• Increased enforcement and penalties, including the suspension or removal of licenses for those who repeatedly break the rules.

Deputy O’Shea added “At the moment, vape products are being sold unregulated in places like sweet shops and takeaway outlets. This legislation introduces real accountability. We owe it to parents and to our young people to put strong safeguards in place. I’ve been a long-time advocate for tougher restrictions on vaping products, particularly where our young people are being targeted. This legislation is a clear and practical response to a growing public health issue.”