Tala Pasifika supports smokefree cars petition

May 11, 2016

Tala Pasifika supports smokefree cars petition

Tala Pasifika is throwing its support behind a petition asking Parliament’s health select committee to make cars smokefree.

Edward Cowley, Manager of the Tala Pasifika service, says children should be protected from the dangerous levels of toxic fumes created by people smoking in cars.

“We have long supported a ban on smoking in cars carrying children. Second-hand smoke is a real and substantial threat to our children’s health," said Mr Cowley.

“Pacific children in New Zealand are twice as likely to be exposed to smoke in cars, compared to European New Zealand children.

“Sensible regulations can protect children from the health harms associated with exposure to second-hand smoke in private vehicles.”

Parliament’s health select committee met to consider a petition on behalf of Patu Puauahi Tai Tokerau - the Smokefree Northland Coalition.

Over 2000 people have signed the petition, which requests a ban on smoking in cars carrying children under the age of 18 years.

Jurisdictions that have introduced comprehensive bans on smoking in cars include most Australian states and territories, Bahrain, Canada, Cyprus, France, Mauritius, South Africa, UAE and the UK.

“The time has come for it to be illegal in New Zealand to make children breathe in these toxic fumes. There is strong public support for such legislation and we urge the Government to support a bill of this nature," Mr Cowley concludes.

Tala Pasifika is New Zealand's largest collective voice on Pacific tobacco control.

ENDS

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