THE Portfolio Committee on Health held public hearings on the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill around Mzansi from 24 to 26 November.
The hearings were part of the nationwide public consultations required by Chapter 59 (1) of the Constitution.
Gauteng was the fifth province to be visited by the committee after similar hearings were held in the North West, Limpopo, Mpumalanga and the Free State.
The bill was introduced to regulate the sale and advertising of tobacco products and electronic delivery systems. To regulate the packaging and appearance of tobacco products and electronic delivery systems and to make provision for the standardisation of their packaging.
The bill received mixed reviews, with participants expressing concern that breadwinners could lose their jobs.
In Heidelberg, Gauteng the hearings began on Friday 24 November with a march to the local municipality opposing the bill.
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Participants expressed their concern about the impact of the bill on tobacco farmers in the region. Business owners emphasised that agriculture is a major contributor to job creation in the community and that this could have a negative impact as people will lose their jobs.
Despite these concerns, some people supported the bill, mainly because it has the potential to reduce the consumption of tobacco products, especially among young people.
Participant Mohafe Molefe, who supported the bill, said that tobacco products should be controlled to reduce drug use among young people.
“In the townships, almost every spot whether it’s shops or parks, people are freely smoking especially youngsters.
"In order to create a positive future for the youth, they have to allow the bill because tobacco mostly impact the lives of young people," Mohafe said.
Heidelberg resident Jabu Tshabalala said he was totally against the bill.
Lesedi Mayor Mluleki Nkosi said they have taken note of the community's concerns.
