February 29, 2024
Hon. Judith G. Seidman: My question is for the government leader in the Senate.
On December 14, 2023, the Government of Canada published on their website an order amending Schedules 2 and 3 of the Tobacco and Vaping Products Act.
Specifically, the amended order and regulations will establish restrictions on the use of all flavours in vaping products except for tobacco, mint and menthol, and prohibit all sugars and sweeteners as well as most flavouring ingredients, with limited exceptions to impart tobacco and mint/menthol flavours.
This is excellent news, yet we are not informed of any timelines as to when these changes will take place.
Senator Gold, it has been five years since these consultations began on a piece of legislation, Bill S-5, which we all know originated right here in our Senate. We now have all the data and the scientific evidence we need. Please tell us when the government plans to finalize these amendments.
Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you very much for your question and for reminding us of the important work we did in this area and the work that still needs to be done.
Finding the tools and the right way to discourage the use, especially by young people, of these products is an important challenge but also an obligation for all governments. I’m not in a position to know exactly when this will be finalized except that the Government of Canada continues to work on it and is working on it as well in consultation with the provinces with regard to the marketing and promotion of these issues, which is part of their responsibilities as well.
Senator Seidman: I hope that you will follow up and find out if they know their intentions as to when this will actually take effect.
The federal government prohibited menthol additives in cigarettes in October 2017. Research shows that the Canadian menthol ban led to increases in quitting among menthol smokers.
Senator Gold, why are we not adding mint and menthol to the prohibited list of flavours in vaping products as some provinces are already doing?
Senator Gold: I’m not in a position to answer your question. I’ll certainly bring these questions and concerns to the attention of the minister.