The new ban means shops and businesses in Northern Ireland can no longer sell or stock single-use vapes. Anyone found guilty of supplying them faces up to two years in prison and a fine up to £5,000. However, reusable vapes remain available for purchase.

Andrew Wilson, policy officer at Asthma + Lung UK NI, welcomed the ban and called for more ambitious measures. “We’d like the executive to build on this momentum by creating smoke and vape-free spaces in playgrounds, schools, and hospitals,” he said.

Mr Wilson explained that studies show vaping can cause airway inflammation, which can worsen existing conditions like asthma and COPD. He also pointed out that there is a “complete lack of knowledge” about the long-term effects of vaping.

The Tobacco and Vapes Vill, which applies across the UK, proposes banning tobacco sales to anyone born after 1 January 2009. It would also limit advertising and packaging of vapes.

Mr Wilson urged the Northern Ireland executive to set a public goal for achieving a smoke-free Northern Ireland, noting that the rest of the UK has already made similar commitments. He also called for a new tobacco control strategy.

The single-use vape ban in Northern Ireland was passed by the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA). Minister Andrew Muir said the ban would help protect the environment, improve public health, and reduce fire risk.