The vending industry has expressed concern that the regulation is unworkable. Joe Beavers, national manager of cigarette vending company, Peninsula Vending, says, "There is no doubt that if these regulations come into operation, we will simply have to shut-up shop. These are small businesses but it nonetheless means the loss of hundreds direct jobs and income to their many dependents.
"We cannot place vending machines outside. It would be very difficult to monitor accessibility and even more so after hours. The security of the machines would be an issue, as well as the safety of the public in these areas after hours.
"My understanding of the main aim of tobacco related regulation is to prevent minors having access to cigarettes. The current legislation provides for this and has been very successful in achieving this objective."
It is impossible for a minor to purchase cigarettes from vending machines inside designated smoking areas as no under 18s are allowed in these areas. Smoking sections inside venues are generally hidden away and as a result, minors do not even see the machines.
"This new legislation is a bridge too far. I am sure the Minister is aware that the country can ill afford to lose any jobs, so I simply cannot see why he is intent on pursuing these new regulations. I can only conclude that his craving to try and ban smoking outweighs his understanding of the country's need for job and economic growth."
