MOH calls for support to implement tobacco control decree

The Health Ministry will need the assistance of the public in ensuring the restrictions in the new tobacco decree are followed.

With the new Tobacco Control Decree, it will restrict the sale of cigarettes to any person under the age of 18 years old through the confinement of the sale of cigarettes to only businesses who are licensed.

Manager for Tobacco Control Ifereimi Corerega said this will also narrow down the work of tobacco officers and they do not have to monitor unnecessary places.

He added they will have the support of police to monitor retailers and public places such as bus stands and internet cafes to comply with the decree and penalties will be in place for those that breach the law which is currently being looked at.

However he said they will need the assistance of the public in reporting on those who do not comply with the law.

Health Minister Dr Neil Sharma said the Tobacco Control Decree will not come into effect immediately but will be phased in which requires all importers, manufacturers and retailers will have to register for their licenses under the decree starting from April 30th next year, while suki vendors will have to register starting from January 1st next year.

Meanwhile, all cigarette packets will have new health warning labels by 2013.



Story by: Sofaia Koroitanoa