Jump to full article: RTÉ Online [Radio Telefís Éireann] (ie), 2009-10-22
Intro: The European Court of Justice has declared that Ireland can not set minimum prices for tobacco products since it distorts competition and benefits manufacturers.
The declaration came in the form of an opinion by the court's Advocate General. In 80% of cases the opinion is in line with the final judgement.
In December 2006 the European Commission wrote to the Irish Government saying that the policy of setting minimum retail prices for cigarettes was contrary to EU law since it limited the freedom of producers and manufacturers to determine their selling prices.
When Ireland failed to legislate for the relevant EU directive the Commission took Ireland to the European Court of Justice in May 2008.
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