Smokefree policies in Europe

www.iwanttoquitsmoking. com 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