Amend smoking ban "to help save the Irish pub"
Tuesday, March 29, 2011 at 9:13AM Seven years after the smoking ban came into effect in all Irish workplaces, a smokers’ group has called for the legislation to be amended to bring Ireland into line with most European countries and “help save the Irish pub”.
John Mallon, spokesman for Forest Eireann, said:
“In the seven years since the smoking ban was introduced, more than a thousand pubs have gone bust with more closures on the way.
“A sensible compromise has been found in countries such as Holland where small owner-managed pubs can choose to be smoking or non-smoking, and larger premises are given the option of having separate, well-ventilated smoking rooms.
“At the very least the regulations should be amended to allow for outdoor smoking rooms that are warm and comfortable all year round.
“Our pub culture is one of the reasons why Ireland is still a great place to live and visit, despite the tough economic times. Pubs bring people together. They are places where friendships are made and people can enjoy a drink together in a sociable, responsible environment.
“With a change of government, let’s have a change of heart on the smoking ban and help save the Irish pub.”
Further comment
John Mallon (Forest Eireann) 085 219 3245