The Uruguayan Society of Tobacco (SUT) presented a administrative appeal before the Presidency of the Republic to revoke the decree that established changes in cigarette packagingreported to The Observer the president of the institution, Laura Rodríguez.
The term to present an appeal for revocation against the decree expired this Monday at 7:00 p.m.
Regarding the changes promoted by the government, Rodríguez maintained that President Luis Lacalle Pou “could have taken advice before” promoting the changes.
The SUT, together with other organizations, expressed its concern once changes became known. In a released statement, they expressed their rejection of the measures adopted by the Executive Power, understanding that “dismantle” tobacco control policy and suppose a “clear setback in health protection of people”.
They understand that not only is “neutral packaging” not respected, but that what is established in the “award of the trial that Uruguay won against Phillip Morrisas more than one presentation per brand is possible”.
For the SUT, according to Rodríguez, this is not a “partisan political” issue because “health has no party”.
“He (by President Luis Lacalle Pou) said of course that the company had requested it. I recognize that we have to take care of companies, but there are so many that are healthier. He considered that and is taking care of the tobacco industry”Rodriguez noted.
This type of revocation resource it must be submitted within ten calendar days after the publication of the decree (September 9 in this case). Once submitted, The Executive Branch will have 150 days to respond affirmatively or negatively.. After 150 days without a response, it is assumed that the appeal filed was dismissed. If that were the case, you can appeal to the Contentious-Administrative Court.
“Based on the response we have from the council of ministers, we will see if we are going to take the next steps. Perhaps the president wants to hear the arguments at some point and we would be delighted to present them,” Rodríguez pointed out.
