New anti-smoking laws to be introduced in May 1990 make smokers a social pariah.
Another step towards prohibition of smoking.
Under the new laws which will come into effect on 1 May 1990, smoking will be prohibited in general areas of all buildings owned by the state or semi-state bodies, as well as schools, third-level colleges and sports centres. Cinemas, theatres, art galleries, public libraries and museums, private and public buses, trains and dart services, and hospitals, will also be effected by the new legislation. The new law also means that it will mandatory to have no smoking areas in restaurants and canteens, and at least one-third of seating areas at airports and ferry ports must be designated as no smoking.
The penalties for breaking the rules will range from £100 to £500.
The new legislation was announced by Minister for Health, Dr Rory O'Hanlon. The laws were introduced as part of the department's Stop Smoking Campaign.
The new legislation was welcomed by the Irish Cancer Society. However, they felt that it fell short by not banning smoking in the workplace. This report includes an interview with Minister Rory O'Hanlon who comments on the subject of smoking in the workplace.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 27 February 1990. The reporter is Jeri Ward.
