Asthma Foundation Congratulates the Government

The Asthma Foundation has welcomed the Government’s commitment to a smoke free New Zealand by 2025.

“This is excellent news for New Zealanders, “says the new Chief Executive of the Asthma Foundation, Angela Francis.

Angela was commenting on the Government’s response to the recommendations of the Māori Affairs Select Committee investigation into the tobacco industry in New Zealand and the effects of tobacco on Māori.

“We see what smoking does to people. Emphysema, for example, which is largely caused by smoking, takes an enormous toll on the lives of hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders. Cigarette smoking is also a major trigger of asthma,” Angela says.

“Smoking is a major reason for Māori respiratory health being worse than non-Māori health as well.”

The Asthma Foundation acknowledges the vital work done by the Select Committee and Associate Health Minister, Tariana Turia.

Ms Turia’s Members Bill, which is backed by the Government and is currently before Parliament, will lead to retail tobacco displays being banned in Aotearoa and on-the-spot fines for retailers who sell cigarettes to children.

“We are grateful to Ms Turia for championing the smoke free cause,” Angela says.

“As Ms Turia says, the smoke free changes are about New Zealanders, through Parliament, defining for themselves the role tobacco is allowed to play in the life of their country – not something to be left in the hands of the tobacco industry.

“Yesterday was a great day for New Zealand.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media