Advertising and promotion by the tobacco industry is about sales and profit...

Date: 05 October 2009

Statement from ASH Ireland - Tobacco advertising and promotion is about sales and profit…
ASH Ireland is surprised that the tobacco industry and one retailer have commenced a court action aimed at overturning the ban on tobacco and advertising and promotion in retail outlets.
Dr Angie Brown, Chairperson of ASH Ireland said today, "This attempt to overturn the ban on tobacco advertising in retail outlets demonstrates a mindset from the tobacco industry which has always concerned us. This excellent legislation is designed to protect children from a bombardment of tobacco advertising and promotion each time they enter a retail outlet – and now the tobacco industry want this protection withdrawn. Perhaps we should not be surprised".
Despite the assertions made in a tobacco industry statement issued earlier today, there is no evidence to suggest that a ban on advertising and promotion contributes to the smuggling of tobacco. This is a scaremongering tactic, which should be ignored. In a number of jurisdictions the tobacco industry has had to pay fines because its complicity in the smuggling of tobacco. Smuggling actually suits the tobacco industry as it increases consumption and addiction.
It is also interesting to note that the Retail Industry went to great lengths to have this retail legislation adjusted, to meet their needs - and now they want it overturned.
Advertising and promotion by the tobacco industry is about sales and profit - and any attempt to present it as anything else is a massive falsehood. The government will have our full support and the support of all pro-health people in fighting this totally unnecessary and quite ridiculous legal action.
ENDS
Further information contact:
Wally Young, Young Communications, 01 6680530, 087 2471520
The Irish Cancer Society and the Irish Heart Foundation fund ASH Ireland