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Date: 11 Jun 2024
A Belfast shop, owned by Gerard Fitzpatrick, has received a 2 month ban from selling tobacco and nicotine inhaling products (including e-cigarettes / vapes) at Belfast Magistrates Court today (Tuesday 11 June 2024). Mr Fitzpatrick was also ordered to pay £242 legal costs.
The application for a Restricted Premises Order was taken by Belfast City Council against Fitzys at 212a Falls Road, for non-compliance with tobacco control legislation.
Following complaints made to Belfast City Council, Tobacco Control Officers carried out visits to the premises. Test purchasing confirmed the shop was selling cigarettes and nicotine inhaling products to under 18s.
Under the Tobacco Retailers Act (Northern Ireland) 2014, it is illegal for a retailer to sell either tobacco products or nicotine inhaling products (including e-cigarettes/ vapes) to anyone under the age of 18. It was also established that Fitzys was not registered to sell tobacco products.
This is the third such case taken by Belfast City Council in 2024 to ban shops that have been illegally selling tobacco products and nicotine inhaling products.
Anyone who has concerns or information about illegal, or underage sales of such goods should report it to our Tobacco Control Team on 028 9027 0428.