CICC supports vaping priorities outlined in Minister of Health's mandate letter

The Convenience Industry Council of Canada (CICC) says it is “encouraged” by priorities shared in the recent release of the ministerial mandate letters, particularly those outlined by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in regards to youth vaping.

In his wide-reaching letter to Health Minister Patricia A. Hajdu, Trudeau states as a priority: “In cooperation with other orders of government and key stakeholders, address the rapid rise in youth vaping. This should start with regulations to reduce the promotion and appeal of vaping products to young people and public education to create awareness of health risks. You are encouraged to explore additional measures.”

In a release, the CICC says it is “supportive of steps to keep vaping products out of the hands of minors through an education and awareness campaign, and is eager to work with government to improve regulations that aim to reduce the promotion and appeal to minors.”

President and CEO Anne Kothawala says: “CICC and our members are strong supporters, and have a proven track record, of responsible sales of age-restricted products through strict compliance to age verification regulations and procedures. While we are pleased with the idea of an awareness campaign, we would also strongly encourage the Federal Government to seek opportunities to improve regulations and monitor the enforcement of the online market for vapes and vaping products, which is totally unregulated and responsible for the vast majority of vape products used by minors.”

CICC is pushing to work closely with Minister Hajdu and Health Canada to develop what it calls “fact-based policies that address the serious issues of youth vaping.”