In Canada, if the stakeholders are more in favor of the regulatory framework imposed on vaping in Bill S-5, there is still a concern regarding information. In fact, Bill S-5, which prohibits comparative promotion, could well slow down the dissemination of information concerning risk reduction.
WHY BAN INFORMATION ON RISK REDUCTION?
Bill S-5, which was passed in first reading in the House of Commons last June's 15, creates a broad regulatory framework for vape products that include quality control provisions and sales bans to minors.
While the government has recognized that vaping products are less harmful than conventional cigarettes and can play an important role in reducing risks, Bill S-5 contains a curious provision prohibiting the "comparative promotion" of products that are less dangerous. Once Bill S-5 is fully passed, it will be forbidden to tell the public that vaping products are less harmful than cigarettes. However, it remains important to clarify that if Bill S-5 was adopted as it stands, its constitutional validity could be called into question, because this prohibition ofcomparative promotionAppears contrary to the freedom of expression protected by section 2 (b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Le Dr. Robert Schwartz, executive director of the Ontario Tobacco Research Unit says that “ In the scientific community, there is a consensus that vaping products are less harmful than cigarettes »Adding all the same that they do not
are not without risk: " Even those who think that they are much less harmful than cigarettes will agree that there is still some harmfulness, if you don't smoke cigarettes you shouldn't start vaping. »
Although lawyers openly accept the S-5 bill as a whole, this clause, which restricts the promotion of vaping with a view to reducing risks, is difficult to pass and is clearly debated.
« We do not think we can make health claims because we are neither doctors nor scientists" , said Darryl Tempest, executive director of The Canadian Vaping Association, " But we believe in vaping in these risk-reducing properties"
