Survey: One-in-six of secondary school children smoke
Almost one in every six secondary school pupils in Ireland is a smoker, according to new figures published today by the Office of Tobacco Control.
The latest research has found that 16% of children between the ages of 12 and 17 smoke cigarettes and spend an average of €25-a-week on the habit.
Most smoke an average of around 10 cigarettes a day and say they began smoking because their peers or family members do so.
The vast majority also say they are not asked for ID when they enter a shop to purchase cigarettes.
More than three-quarters of respondents who buy 10-packs of cigarettes said they would quit if prices were doubled.
