The ban on the sale and supply of single-use vapes in Northern Ireland has been pushed back by two months.
Environment Minister Andrew Muir It previously said it plans to ban them from April 2025.But on Wednesday, he said the ban would not take effect until June 1.
The new date relates to new laws being made separately by the Scottish, Welsh and UK governments.
Muir said setting the dates would provide clarity for businesses that sell single-use vapes.
“A major concern for me is the increase in waste and improper disposal of used vaporizers, as well as the environmental damage caused by their poor recyclability,” he said.
“The single use of returns can have a devastating effect on our environment and biodiversity and I welcome this ban which will have better benefits for our environment and consequently our general health and well-being.”
Businesses will be able to prepare for the transition by selling off any existing stock of single-use vapes.
During this period, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) will work with retail organizations to ensure that those affected understand the ban and their new responsibilities.
UK-wide guidance for businesses is being developed and published. On the Daira website Later in December.
The legislation will provide for criminal sanctions with a maximum penalty of two years imprisonment and a fine.
Up to five million single-use vapes are thrown away rather than recycled in the UK every week.
In a 2023 UK government consultation, 90.4% of individual respondents in Northern Ireland agreed that the sale and supply of single-use vapes should be banned and 84.9% agreed that the ban should take the form of a ban on their sale and supply. Should be adopted.