THERE has been significant support for the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill at the public hearings across the country.
Free State residents had an opportunity to add their contributions to the Tobacco Bill when the Portfolio Committee on Health resumed public hearings on the Bill. The hearings took place on Friday, 31 January, in Trompsburg Town Hall.
Overall, the hearings provided a platform for diverse opinions, reflecting the importance of public participation in the legislative process.Measures in the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill aim to reduce tobacco use, dangerous exposure to second-hand tobacco smoke, and the initiation of tobacco use by young people.
Key proposals include making indoor public places and certain outdoor areas 100% smoke-free, banning cigarette and e-cigarette vending machines, implementing plain packaging with graphic health warnings, and regulating electronic nicotine delivery systems. One of the participants, Patrick Legetlha cited economic and job impacts from marketing restrictions as their reasons for opposing the Bill, speaking on behalf of those seeking opportunities in the tobacco industries, as well as vendors making a living from selling tobacco.
Participant Cedrick Tlhako, who holds Masters in public nutrition, rejected the bail, citing that nicotine is addictive but non-toxic.He said nicotine doesn’t mainly cause most smoking diseases through smoking, however is the burning of tobacco that has a huge impact.Lehasa Nxu, a medical practitioner, said the bail has valid points but stands on rejecting it because of some of the issues it does not address. He said the committee must use these resources to focus on more research that would seek to help smokers quit smoking, citing that most smokers struggle with quitting even when health practitioners advise them to quit.
Dineo Motswamu who supported the bail emphasizing the need for stricter regulations to protect non-smokers and vulnerable groups from second-hand smoke. Dineo advocated for more community education.“Many young people are clearly influenced by industry misinformation. We face a significant task in educating and raising awareness to prevent another generation from becoming addicted to tobacco and nicotine.”
The public hearings will conclude in Western Cape on Sunday 02 February, at George, Conville Community Hall.
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