THE HEALTH MINISTER James Reilly has been formally recognised by the World Health Organisation for his work on tobacco control.

As part of their annual World No Tobacco Day initiative the WHO identified Minister Reilly as a key international figure in the fight against the harms caused by tobacco.

The Organisation highlighted Reilly’s work during Ireland’s Presidency of the EU on the Tobacco Products Directive and his work in ensuring the development and implementation of Tobacco Free Ireland.

TFI includes important measures such as the introduction of standardised packaging and the banning of smoking in cars when children are present.

The Minister said:

Whilst it is a great honour for me personally to be recognised by the World Health Organisation, it is also a great honour for everyone who works in tobacco control.

“Unfortunately nearly every smoker becomes addicted when they are still children and the reality is that 1 in every 2 will be killed by a tobacco related disease”.

He added that “Time and effort spent on tobacco control is one of the best investments we can make for our citizens to ensure that we achieve out twin goals of a Tobacco Free Ireland and a Healthy Ireland”.

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