Budget reaction: Irish Cancer Society

We have strongly welcomed the Government’s announcement that the price of cigarettes will increase by a further 50c tonight, saying that the hike will be a disincentive for children to start smoking and will encourage current smokers to quit.

The increase is the most substantial since 2008 and builds on the 40c rise in Budget 2015. We believe that sharp, regular spikes in tobacco price will help the Government reach its target of a ‘smoke-free generation’ by 2025.

Speaking in response to the Budget announcement today, Ms. Kathleen O’Meara, Head of Advocacy and Communications said, “The Irish Cancer Society is pleased that cigarette prices are continuing to rise and by such large amounts. It sends a strong signal to the tobacco industry that the Government is serious about reaching its target of a smokefree Ireland by 2025. This year’s price hike, alongside the 40c last year, will encourage people to stop smoking and ultimately save lives.”

Ms. O’Meara encouraged smokers who want to quit smoking as a result of the price hike to seek help from the support services that are available. “We know that quitting smoking is a difficult process so we strongly encourage smokers to call the National Smokers Quitline on 1800 201 203 to get help and advice on how to quit.

Or if you feel more comfortable with online support, check out the great resources on www.quit.ie. Quitting smoking is one of the most important ways a person can improve their health and we are behind them every step of the way.”

In our joint Pre Budget Submission with the Irish Heart Foundation,  we called for the revenue from tobacco sales to be reinvested in supports for smokers to quit. “Simply levying taxes on products that are addictive will only go some of the way in helping smokers to make the decision to quit,” said Ms. O’Meara.

“Smokers need comprehensive and targeted supports to become part of the 28% of the population who are now ex-smokers in Ireland. The Healthy Ireland Survey results published last week show that 63% of smokers want to quit, but we need to help them to do so.”

See our online resources to help you  quit smoking