The Tasmanian Greens have marked World No Tobacco Day to call on the Hodgman government to guarantee funding in the August Budget for the state’s nationally applauded anti-smoking media campaign.
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) and Australian Council on Smoking and Health (ACOSH) last week named Tasmania and the ACT as joint winners of the National Tobacco Scoreboard Award, Greens Heath spokesperson Cassy O’Connor said.
"This nationally recognised preventative health program will ultimately save lives,” Ms O’Connor said.
"It keeps people healthier and will reduce the impact on our already over-burdened public health and hospital system.”
“It would be an excellent way to acknowledge the campaign's benefits and mark World No Tobacco Day if the Premier, Will Hodgman, guaranteed ongoing funding in the August Budget.”
“In the 2013-14 Budget the Greens secured an additional $1 million to tackle tobacco addiction and smoking rates.
"The allocation included funding for health groups to develop and run anti-smoking social marketing and media campaigns.”
“The AMA and ACOSH specifically singled out this new anti-smoking media campaign for commendation in the National awards.”
“It is critical that these successful programs continue as Tasmania still has among the nation's highest smoking rates, especially amongst pregnant women and teenagers.”
“We still have a long way to go. The National Tobacco Scoreboard highlights the need for continued reforms including divesting superannuation investments from tobacco, banning Big Tobacco political donations, and introducing smoke-free prisons.”
“Tackling tobacco addiction is a key public health policy issue for current and future generations.”
"Investing in the health of people is a core responsibility of government.”
"Tasmanian health NGOS and anti-smoking campaigners such as the Heart Foundation and Quit Tasmania, and local councils deserve our great appreciation for being part of this national recognition and for their tireless efforts over the years to encourage Tasmanians to kick the habit," Ms O’Connor said.