BELFAST – A Belfast shopkeeper has been fined £1,200 after admitting to selling a nicotine inhaling product to a child.
Michael O’Reilly, owner of a store on Donegall Street, pleaded guilty at Belfast Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday. The case was brought by Belfast City Council following a test purchase operation.
Council officers confirmed that O’Reilly sold a nicotine product—commonly known as a vape—to a person under the age of 18. The sale breached the Tobacco Retailers Act (Northern Ireland) 2014, which prohibits the sale of tobacco or nicotine inhaling products to minors.
As a result, O’Reilly’s shop has been placed under an 18-month Restricted Premises Order. He is also subject to a Restricted Sales Order for the same period, banning him from selling tobacco and nicotine inhaling products.
In addition to the £1,200 fine, O’Reilly was ordered to pay £78 in costs.
Belfast City Council is encouraging the public to report illegal or underage sales of tobacco or vaping products. Anyone with information can contact the Tobacco Control Team at 028 9027 0428.
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