Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 6 February 2025
226. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Health if the proposed new license fees for retail of tobacco products will be collected by the Revenue Commissioners similar to the collection of fees for licenses for other excise categories such as intoxicating liquor, betting, mineral oils; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3664/25]
View answer228. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Health if the revenue generated from the new licensing system for tobacco and vapes will be ring-fenced for expenditure on increased inspection and test-purchasing of retail units to ensure compliance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3667/25]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 226 and 228 together.
The Public Health (Tobacco Products and Nicotine Inhaling Products) Act 2023 introduces a licensing system for retailers with the specific intention of denormalising tobacco retailing and reflecting the seriousness of the harms caused by tobacco compared to other products.
The Act provides that the Health Service Executive is the relevant authority for the operation of the licensing system including collection of fees, and for enforcement of the overall legislation. This is being undertaken by the National Environmental Health Service (NEHS) within the HSE. The NEHS is the appropriate authority to administer the licensing system because it is, first and foremost, a public health measure. The NEHS is currently operating the registration system that the licensing system will replace, and is responsible for enforcing all existing tobacco control law.
Funding for enforcement activity is determined via the annual Budget process and subsequent National Service Plan.
