20th August 2026

Peter McGuire Workers Party Representative for Foyle is calling on the Northern Ireland Executive to introduce legislation to restrict the sale and supply of vape products following a report from the Health and Safety Executive of the considerable risks to those who use vapes and vape juices. Many of these products have been found to contain synthetic cannabinoids which can cause users, many of whom are teenagers and young children, severe physical and mental health issues leading to high incidents of mood swings, confusion, and the inability to engage with society resulting in long term mental and physical health problems which can have a negative impact on their life chances and opportunities.

The tobacco companies have been quick to jump on the vape bandwagon with their claims that vaping is safe and has no ill effects on the end user. These products contain nicotine which is the reason the tobacco companies have invested so heavily in their production. There is now a growing body of opinion in the medical profession that vaping is leading to increased pressure on an already overstretched healthcare system especially in mental health services.

Exposure to vaping in children and young adults, can lead to long time negative impacts on brain development as well as addiction, and it is estimated that people who take up vaping, who were non-smokers are three to five times more likely to begin smoking tobacco. Fibrosis and constrictive bronchiolitis’ are also a proven result of vaping. Mr McGuire said the Workers Party is calling for an immediate clampdown on illegal vaping outlets and much tighter control on the supply chains with ring-fenced funding to ensure the full implementation of the legislation. The medical implication of vaping is going to end up draining much needed resources in our healthcare systems in the same way that cigarettes and other tobacco products have. We should act now to protect the wellbeing of those who are now at risk because of the vaping epidemic that we face.