Not one motorist has been fined for smoking in car with children almost a decade after law introduced

Since the ban on smoking in vehicles with minors, enacted on January 1, 2016, there has not been a single fine issued by gardaí. The law, which carries a €100 penalty, was introduced to protect children from the dangers of secondhand smoke. Despite its good intentions, the lack of enforcement indicates a broader issue with the realization of such public health laws. The initial push for the ban was led by former children's minister Dr. James Reilly, alongside then health minister Leo Varadkar, emphasizing their commitment to safeguarding minors.

Despite the introduction of a €100 penalty for smoking in cars with children, gardaí have not issued a single fine since the law took effect in 2016. This raises questions about enforcement and public health priorities.

The law banning smoking in cars with minors was implemented nearly a decade ago, intended to protect children from secondhand smoke. Its lack of enforcement, however, suggests a gap in policy effectiveness.

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