Smoking In Cars With Children May Soon Be Banned

Health Minister Simon Hamilton is aiming to bring forward an amendment to ban smoking in cars with children.

England and Wales have implemented a similar ban and legislation is currently going through parliament in Scotland.

Mr Hamilton said: "I have listened carefully to the arguments made by many that Northern Ireland should follow the example of other parts of the United Kingdom, and I confirm to the House today that it is my intention to bring forward an amendment at consideration stage (of the legislation) to ban smoking in cars with children."

Mr Hamilton's proposed changes to the law would also make it illegal to sell e-cigarettes to minors.

SDLP Health Spokesperson and South Belfast MLA Fearghal McKinney said: "The ill-effects of second-hand smoke on children are now well established and it is devastating to children’s health and wellbeing. Studies have shown that there is no safe level of exposure, not least in an enclosed vehicle. Every time someone smokes a cigarette, they breathe in a lethal cocktail of toxins and other harmful chemicals. The danger only increases for children rebreathing smoke.

"Public support of the ban is well established. Clinicians, charities and the public have spoken and it is now time for delivery and that is why I have tabled an amendment to ban smoking in cars with children."

(CD)