Tobacco sting nabs 10 dairies selling to teens

Ten Whangarei and Kaipara dairy owners could be prosecuted and fined up to $2000 each after being caught selling cigarettes to under-age teenagers in a Northland District Health Board tobacco operation.

Both volunteers used in the three-day operation were 15 years old and were told to give their correct age if asked by dairies.

The targeted retailers had either been complained about for selling tobacco to under-age children, were near schools, or were in areas where many people smoked.

Results of the operation were very disappointing, says Northland District Health Board smokefree officer Wendy Antrobus, because the legislation is nearly 20 years old.

Research shows that tobacco displays contribute significantly to the problem because they are quite seductive for young people.

"They are very visible and there’s so much tobacco on display it’s a real temptation for our youth," says Mrs Antrobus.

Although 32 retailers questioned or refused to sell cigarettes to the 15-year-olds, those children able to buy tobacco products continue to be a concern and it is disappointing that there are some businesses in Northland that continue to sell tobacco to children, she says.

"Reports on the 10 outlets that sold cigarettes to the volunteers have been sent to the Ministry of Health," says Mrs Antrobus.

The decision to prosecute would be made by the Ministry of Health.

The regular health board operations help reinforce the legal obligations of business operators to make sure tobacco sales are not made to underage children, she says.

This is not about pointing the finger, but is rather about protecting children from the harmful effects of tobacco.

Retailers could assess the age of teenagers by insisting on a form of photo identification from anyone who looks under the age of 25 – no photo identification, no sale.

It is that simple, says Mrs Antrobus.

Any retailers requiring assistance with compliance, tobacco displays restrictions and staff training can contact Northland District Health Board smokefree co-ordinator Bridget Rowse.