ASH Welcomes removal of 'Point of Sale' Advertising

Date: 09 July 2008

ASH Ireland Welcomes Removal of Point of Sale Advertising and Promotion

ASH Ireland welcomes the announcement by Minister Wallace earlier today that ‘Point of Sale’ advertising and promotion of tobacco products will be removed from all our retail outlets - with effect from 1st July 2009.

This long overdue initiative, which is already enshrined in our legislation, will protect the consumer and especially young people from the ever-increasing bombardment of tobacco signage in retail outlets all around the country.

Dr Angie Brown, Chairperson ASH Ireland said today, “We welcome this announcement by Minister Wallace, as it will constitute a further means of reducing the impact of tobacco advertising and promotion on our young people. The tobacco industry had a considerable hold on our retailers and turned all our retail counter areas into ‘tobacco sales booths’. Children use retail outlets, mostly to buy sweets and soft drinks – yet it was not possible for them to do this without experiencing the impact of numerous tobacco adverts. Thankfully we will be rid of this underhand and very effective marketing tool - with effect from 1st July 2009”

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For information
Wally Young, Young Communications, 087-2471520

The Irish Cancer Society and Irish Heart Foundation fund ASH Ireland