10% reduction in price of Nicotine Replacement Therapy Products sought by ASH Ireland

Date: 11 March 2009

ASH Ireland seeks 10% reduction in price of Nicotine Replacement Therapy Products.

ASH Ireland has contacted all the main pharmaceutical companies, who manufacture and supply nicotine replacement products asking that they reduce the price of these products to the consumer by 10%. Nicotine replacement products are much more expensive in the Republic of Ireland than in Northern Ireland and the U.K.

Dr. Angie Brown, Chairperson of ASH Ireland said today, “It is expected that the government will introduce a significant increase in the price of tobacco products in the interim budget on 7th April, as the inflation concerns of the past are no longer relevant. We expect that many people will want to quit smoking and it is important that all possible support is available to them. Nicotine replacement products can be of assistance, but many people may find they are very expensive and this in itself is a barrier to people who are considering quitting. We are now asking the pharmaceutical companies to reduce the cost of these products by 10% to the consumer before the 7th April. This move is entirely possible and will bring prices for these products much more in line with Northern Ireland shelf prices”.

Tobacco kills close to 7,000 people in this country each year – this is a national scandal. All possible assistance must be offered to smokers who wish to quit – and less expensive Nicotine Replacement Therapy Products will be of assistance.

The National Smokers Quitline is: 1850 201 203

ENDS

Further information contact:
ASH Ireland, 01 2310521
Wally Young, Young Communications, 01 6680530, 087 2471520

The Irish Cancer Society and Irish Heart Foundation fund ASH Ireland