Workers support plain packaging of tobacco

The CTU have today presented to the health select committee in support of plain packaging of tobacco.

“Any steps that can be taken to lower smoking rates will result in New Zealand workers and their families having healthier and better lives, reduce unavoidable deaths, have a direct impact on tamariki/children by reducing exposure to smoke and reduce the smoking uptake among rangitahi/young people.” CTU Policy analyst Eileen Brown said.

“We speak on behalf of over 300,000 workers and As a trade union movement we are committed to a more equal society, There is a strong socio-economic gradient among people who smoke and is reflected in smoking rates In New Zealand that have people on lower incomes more likely to be smokers and experience all the deleterious effects of smoking.“ Brown said.

“We know that tobacco companies deliberately target vulnerable groups to maintain their sales. Let us be clear, the tobacco industry is focused on making as much money as possible, regardless of how many lives they take.” Brown said.

“This law change must not be delayed and we are strongly against waiting until the outcomes of the World Trade Organisation’s dispute process against Australia’s plain packaging laws are known.” Brown said.

ENDS

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