Northern Ireland must not be left behind on smoking ban

Jul 6 2005

Commenting on the confirmation that Wales will press ahead with a total ban on smoking in public places, BMA(NI) Public Health Committee Vice-Chairman, Dr Colin Hamilton, raised his concerns that Northern Ireland is in significant danger of being left behind.

Dr Hamilton said: "The Welsh Health Minister has confirmed that Wales will have a total ban on smoking in public places. Scotland is introducing similar measures and the Republic of Ireland has had a ban in place for over a year now. Northern Ireland must not be left behind in protecting the health of workers and the general public.

Medical evidence is overwhelming, passive smoking kills people. The longer it takes for legislation to be introduced the greater the number of people who will die from passive smoking.

While we applaud the Minister’s decision to implement some type of smoking ban, we would ask the Minister for Health to listen to the political parties, the public and the medical professionals. The message is clear. A total ban on smoking in public enclosed places is the only responsible option. The Minister must not wait until the Autumn, he must take action now to stop people dying from passive smoking."

http://www.bma.org.uk/