Tobacco Use, State Government Concern

Health Minister, Hon Dr. Fenton Ferguson, said the government is "profoundly concerned" about the devastating impact of smoking and the fact that more teenagers are abusing tobacco. “It is with alarm that I have observed that the 13 to 15 age cohort is the group being seduced into the practice of tobacco use and the products are becoming more and more innovative,” he stated. The Health Minister, who was addressing a recent press briefing at his downtown Kingston offices, said the government deems it a priority to protect and safeguard public health by reducing exposure to the harmful effects of tobacco use through a comprehensive Tobacco Control Act. The Ministry is finalizing preparations to seek Cabinet approval for the draft bill that will provide sweeping protection against unwanted tobacco exposure. It is designed to reduce demand for tobacco products over time, protect persons and the environment from tobacco smoke, and prevent the elicit supply of tobacco products. Dr. Ferguson said the legislation is an integral part of the government’s bid to address the increase in non-communicable diseases, treatment of which is causing a significant burden on the public purse. It is also in keeping with obligations under the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), which Jamaica ratified in July 2005. The enactment of domestic legislation emanating from the treaty is outstanding. The Ministry is also moving to enact legislation that will reduce discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS.