-says use poses health risks for teenagers, could fuel violence
ON Saturday evening, President, Dr Irfaan Ali announced restrictions on vapes. This announcement was followed by a collective sigh of relief from teachers and parents across Guyana.
At the Mortice Hindu Temple, many educators and members of the community shared their thoughts on this announcement by the president, noting that the new restrictions will remove the dangerous temptations facing many youths today.
One of these concerned persons was Vidya Maraj, a teacher and parent who said that she supports the president’s decision to enforce a ban on the importation, distribution, and reselling of vapes in Guyana.
Maraj stated, “Vaping is very dangerous, and not just dangerous to your lungs and respiratory system, but young people especially teenagers who vape, it messes with their mood. This in turn can cause conflicts with their peers, and then we’re going to have violence. So, I do support the president’s initiative on the banning of vapes.”
In a report highlighting the president’s announcement, it was said that the government will be imposing restrictions on the importation of all vapes and vaping products into Guyana, except those specifically approved by the Minister of Health or the relevant tobacco-control authorities.
In a live address to the nation the president told citizens that Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, will soon sign an order under the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01, giving effect to the restrictions.
This move by the government follows the growing concerns of many about the widespread and largely unregulated importation, distribution, selling and use of vapes and vaping products, particularly among schoolchildren and teenagers.
President Ali had said that the new proposed restrictions were informed by consultations with parents, teachers, children, religious leaders, and community representatives who have continued to express increasing concerns about the accessibility and usage of vaping products among young people.
The president in his address said, “As a responsible government, as a listening government, we have a duty to protect public health, particularly the health and well-being of our children and young people and to ensure that products presenting potential risks to consumers are subject to appropriate oversight and control.”
Furthermore, the Ministry of Education has said that by halting the importing of recreational vaping products, the government is taking a firm stand to protect students, safeguard public health, and secure a wholesome future for generations of Guyanese.
