MONTREAL - Smokers have launched a $27 billion class-action lawsuit against three tobacco companies.

The argument is that companies should be held responsible for the addictions of hundreds of thousands of people.

The case is expected to last at least two years.

Rob Cunningham is a lawyer and senior policy analyst for the Canadian Cancer Society.

"Here in Canada, there have been some cases filed, but this is the first class action against the tobacco industry and of course industry tried to postpone that as long as possible," said Cunningham.

For the full interview, click the video player to the right.