"Children are at particular risk from the effects of passive smoking because they have an increased risk of developing chest infections during their first five years. Babies who are exposed to cigarette smoke are also at a greater risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), which is also known as cot death," the Health Ministry said.

It said smoke also makes children more vulnerable to ear infections and asthma.

Levels of toxins from smoking in cars can reach high counts very quickly.

The ban will apply to all tobacco products including e-cigarettes. Drivers will always be held responsible and be liable to a fine of €50. Any passenger caught smoking in a car in the presence of minors will also be liable to a fine of €50.

Smoking was banned in all enclosed public spaces in April 2004. 

THIS ISN'T ABOUT THROWING STONES AT SMOKERS. IT'S ABOUT FINDING AND TURBO-CHARGING NEW FUN WAYS TO DO WHAT NO GENERATION HAS EVER DONE BEFORE - END SMOKING. 

WE'RE ABOUT GETTING THE REAL FACTS IN FRONT OF AS MANY PEOPLE AS WE CAN. WE CALL OURSELVES TRUTH BECAUSE WE JUST LIKE THE WAY IT SOUNDS 

BIG TOBACCO IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING THEIR GAME PLAN. WE NEED TO CONSTANTLY EVOLVE OURS. WE ARE A GENERATION WITH NEW BELIEFS AND NEW IDEAS. LET'S GET CREATIVE. 

We're counting on you

LESS THAN 6% OF TEENS STILL SMOKE. FINISHING THE JOB WILL COME DOWN TO YOU. BE CREATIVE. ENLIST FRIENDS. SPREAD TRUTH. TELL US WHAT YOU NEED TO FINISH IT. 

Approximately 3.6 million middle and high school students were current tobacco users in 2017.Although tobacco use by adolescents has declined substantially in the last 40 years, in 2017, less than one in 25 high school seniors was a daily smoker Substantial racial/ethnic and regional differences in smoking rates exist. Among high school students, white teens are more likely to smoke than their black or Hispanic peers. Smoking rates are typically higher in nonmetropolitan areas, and in the Southern and Midwestern regions of the country.