Smoking Ban can be Health Initiative of the Century

Date: 18 February 2004

Speaking in Dublin today, Professor Luke Clancy, Chairperson of ASH Ireland said, “The introduction of a smoking ban in the Irish workplace, as announced by Minister Martin to-day, could in time be viewed as the most important health initiative undertaken this century by an Irish Government. We commend the Minister and the Government for pushing ahead with this vital life saving initiative.”

It is important that this health initiative has the support of all employers. If the ban is supported at this level it will be extremely successful. There may be teething problems initially in places such as prisons and psychiatric hospitals – but this can be worked out - if the overall emphasis on health is maintained.

Professor Clancy went on to say, “On health grounds I ask the vintners and hospitality industry to support Minister Martin and the Government. We can now have a hospitality sector free of smoke, which all of us can use and enjoy. And I also have little doubt that our smoke free pubs and restaurants will be a focus and an attraction for the vast majority of our potential visitors from overseas.”

As this legislation removes a class one carcinogen from so many workplaces – especially pubs and restaurants - ASH Ireland is confident that there will be discernible positive returns in terms of the nation’s health. Ten years after the ‘smoky coal’ was banned in Dublin research showed significant health benefits.

“The smokefree workplace may also change the cultural response to smoking and lead to increased quitting and decreased starting of smoking by our young” This will certainly save lives, increase disease free lifespan - and reduce our overall spend on tobacco related disease.