The HSE currently lacks specific funding within its quit smoking programmes to address vaping or nicotine pouch addiction, it has been revealed.
Existing programmes are designed to support individuals quitting tobacco or those concurrently using tobacco and nicotine products.
The HSE has raised concerns about an increasing number of people seeking help to quit e-cigarettes or nicotine pouches without ever having smoked tobacco.
Martina Blake, national lead for the HSE’s tobacco-free Ireland programme, stated: “The HSE has not been directed by the Department of Health to develop a stop vaping/nicotine pouch cessation service.
“The development of such a service requires dedicated additional resources in terms of staff and capital funding.”
She emphasized the need for government funding to research effective methods for helping people quit vaping, along with increased staffing and budget allocation.
The HSE has submitted a business case and funding request to the Minister for Health for consideration.
Ms. Blake clarified, in response to a parliamentary question from Labour TD Conor Sheehan, that individuals who both vape and smoke tobacco can access the existing stop smoking service.
Nicotine pouches, unlike tobacco products, are placed between the gum and upper lip to allow nicotine absorption through the gum.
Mr. Sheehan cautioned: “If you look at what happened in Britain since they banned single-use vapes, the consumption trends have moved towards nicotine pouches.
“That’s beginning to happen here too.”
He recounted an instance where a friend in Limerick was offered three nicotine pouches as a free trial in a vape shop.
“There is a role for vaping in terms of smoking cessation but vaping is also a gateway to nicotine addiction, as are these pouches. The pouches are completely unregulated in Ireland and vaping is only lightly regulated,” he stated.
He urged for future-proofed legislation to encompass the development of new products.
“It also should be considered in light of the upcoming Budget2026.”
A spokesperson confirmed that Minister of State for Public Health Jennifer Murnane O’Connor is actively working on relevant changes.
She will “explore initiatives to support young people with an addiction to nicotine products and to increase awareness of the harms associated with these products,” he stated.
New laws, including a ban on disposable vapes and flavor restrictions, are currently with the Attorney General for drafting.
