The Cabinet has agreed to ban the sale of tobacco products for those aged under 21.
Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly said he hopes to progress legislation quickly to give it legal effect.
He explained that the Government did not take the approach of the UK Government, which seeks to legislate for a ban on smoking for those born after 2009, due to the EU's Single Market Rules and the Tobacco Products Directive.
However, he said that there is an ongoing review of the EU position.
Minister Donnelly said that vapes were not included in this ban as it was not suggested in the "clinical advice" the Department recieved.
He also said that vapes are used as a "smoking cessation tool".
Mr Donnelly also confirmed that those aged 18-21, working in retail, will not be prevented from selling tobacco products.
Ban on sale of tobacco to those under 21 agreed by Govt
The Cabinet has agreed to ban the sale of tobacco products for those aged under 21.