Plain packs, plain stupid
I'm pleased to announce the launch of a new campaign website.
Here's an edited version of the press release for Plain Packs Plain Stupid.
Campaigners launch new website to fight plain packaging of tobacco
The smokers' group Forest Eireann has launched a new website to fight plans to introduce plain packaging of tobacco in Ireland.
The site, which has a sludge brown background to highlight the dull packaging proposed by Health Minister James Reilly, lists some of the consumer arguments against standardised packs.
It also features a campaign video, 'The Burning Issue', that features interviews with smokers in Dublin.
John Mallon, spokesman for Forest Eireann, said:
"The proposed legislation is not fit for purpose. Advocates say plain packaging will deter children from smoking.
"People start smoking for many reasons, often peer pressure, but packaging isn't one of them.
"I don't know any smoker who began because they were attracted by the packet. It's nonsense.
"Plain packaging is gesture politics. It won't stop children smoking but it might encourage an illicit market in branded or counterfeit packs.
"We urge the government to abandon this reckless experiment that could do far more harm than good."
Click on this link to visit the Plain Packs Plain Stupid website.