KIDS VAPE BAN

HEALTH Minister Stephen Donnelly has vowed to crack down on the design and flavour of vapes as he announced a ban on the sale of e-cigarettes for under-18s.

- LOUISE BURNE

He said the EU is currently examining new legislation on the devices but if it does not go far enough, Ireland will push forward with its own regulations.

Cabinet approved a Bill from the minister that will prohibit the sale of nicotine-inhaling products to minors.

It will also outlaw the sale of tobacco and nicotine-inhaling products at events for children and ban vape vending machines.

Ads for e-cigs on public transport and around schools will be proscribed with a strict new licensing system introduced for the products.

Mr Donnelly said while Ireland is not looking at an "outright ban" on vapes, he does want to see restrictions on flavours, labelling, designs and advertising in shops.