Compliance and Enforcement


The HSE's Environmental Health Service enforces a range of legislative and regulatory measures, including provisions of the Public Health (Tobacco) Act governing smoking in the workplace and sales of tobacco to minors.

In relation to the sale of tobacco to minors, the HSE undertakes compliance checks, also known as test purchases, in retail outlets to determine if retailers will sell tobacco products to minors.

In general, compliance with the Public Health (Tobacco) Act has been high since its introduction over 15 years ago. However, significant problems still remain in relation to smoking in the work place, (section 47 of the Act) particularly in relation to licensed premises and non-compliant smoking shelters, and also in relation to sales of tobacco products to minors under the age of 18 (section 45 of the Act).

Details of prosecutions leading to convictions under the Public Health (Tobacco) Act are published at the links below and in related files. This is being done to raise awareness of the law; to highlight good practice and demonstrate to those who comply with the law that action is being taken against those who fail or refuse to comply; and to encourage the public and businesses to report non-compliance to our Compliance Line, on Lo-Call 1800 333 100.

Tobacco Convictions 2020

Tobacco Convictions 2021

Tobacco Convictions 2022

Tobacco Convictions 2023 Q1