You are here

Durkan: Protect children from passive smoke

SDLP Health spokesperson Mark H Durkan has supported calls for a ban on smoking in cars carrying children.

Mon 14th November

Speaking during a debate in the Assembly today (Monday), Mr Durkan said:

 

“This is not about attacking smokers’ rights- it is about protecting children’s rights.

 

“Because children breathe faster than adults and their respiratory systems are not fully developed, they are more susceptible to damage through passive smoking. If this smoking is taking place in a confined space, such as in a car, the damage caused is even greater.

 

“Research clearly indicates that children exposed to second hand smoke are much more likely to suffer from conditions such as asthma, meningitis, glue ear and other respiratory diseases. There are also links to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.

 

“It is vitally important that we raise awareness of these issues for the wellbeing of our children. Not only will it protect their precious health, but it will also see considerable savings made by the Department of Health in the future as it is estimated that second hand smoke currently responsible for 300,000 GP consultations and 9,500 hospital admissions per year.”

Mark H Durkan

Mark H Durkan MLA

Email markh.durkan@mla.niassembly.gov.uk
Tel 028 7136 5516

Press Office

Tel 028 90 52 1837

Back to Latest News

Filed Under:

You are here