Public opinion sought on smoke-free spaces

Health Minister Angela Smith today launched a week-long advertising campaign aimed at encouraging the general public to participate in the consultation on smoke-free public places.

Last year the Department of Health commissioned research on the extent of public support for smoking restrictions, which found that 70% would support smoke-free indoor public places.

Via newspaper adverts starting today, the public are being asked to vote for their preference from the following three options: Voluntary introduction of smoke free public places; Allowing smoking in some pubs, other than those serving food; and a ban in all public places and workplaces.

Ms Smith said: “Smoking is the single greatest cause of preventable illness and premature death in Northern Ireland and claims almost 3,000 lives here each year.

“This week-long advertising campaign will provide an additional opportunity for the public to respond to the consultation, by either replying to the adverts or sending their views online on the department’s website.”

The 2002/03 Continuous Household Survey found that 26% of adults (aged 16+) smoke – 27% males and 26% females.

The new advertising campaign will run from 24 February until 2 March in the main local Northern Ireland newspapers.

The three month consultation was launched through the DHSSPS draft Regional Strategy – ‘A Healthier Future’, on 21 December and ends on 25 March.

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