Minister announces new tobacco control measures.

Health Minister, Michael McGimpsey has confirmed plans to remove cigarette displays in shops and prevent underage access to vending machines.
The move is a further step aimed at reducing the level of smoking amongst children and young people in Northern Ireland and reflects plans recently announced in England and Wales.
Northern Ireland was included in the Department of Health (London) consultation on future tobacco controls in May 2008. The proposals to remove tobacco displays in shops, and for tough action to restrict access to vending machines, received strong support.
It is hoped that these new measures will come into effect in Northern Ireland in 2010.