Smokefree policies in Europe
www.iwanttoquitsmoking.
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The Stop Smoking Hypnosis People
On 1 January, Spain became the latest European country to ban
smokers from public places. Here we look at the current state of
legislation in all 25 members of the EU Irish Republic Centuries
of tradition were overturned in March 2004 when smoking in bars
and all other workplaces was banned. The measure was pushed
through by a crusading health minister in the teeth of
opposition from the politically powerful hospitality industry.
Although controversial to begin with, smoke-free pubs and other
workplaces quickly came to be regarded as the norm and the Irish
Republic has been visited by delegations from a number of other
countries contemplating anti-smoking moves.
Northern Ireland A smoking ban encompassing all enclosed public
places - including pubs, restaurants and hotels - is due to come
into effect in April 2007. Smoking is already banned in
government offices and other institutions. Making the
announcement last October, Northern Ireland Office minister
Shaun Woodward said: "No one has a right to subject colleagues
and workmates to the dangers and hazards of second-hand smoke
and passive smoking." He, of course, represents an English
constituency - where the proposed ban is much less complete.
Although the Northern Ireland policy could be changed if a new
powersharing government is formed in Belfast, the expectation is
that it would go ahead as planned. No major political party has
voiced opposition.
England Of the four countries of the UK, England is the only one
going for a partial ban, due to be introduced in April 2007.
This will permit smoking in pubs that don't serve food. It has
provoked widespread protests that it will be unworkable. The
Government has promised a set of guidelines - but they are
unlikely to be simple.
Scotland A complete ban on smoking in enclosed public places in
Scotland comes into effect at 6am on Sunday 26 March following a
unanimous decision by the Scottish Executive last November. It
will be an offence - with a minimum penalty of