Denis Naughten
Question:228 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the action he is taking on correspondence received by his Department (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5322/02]
Written Answers. - Tobacco Related Diseases.
The correspondence referred to by the Deputy relates to concerns as to whether smoking of tobacco products will be banned in pubs. The Public Health (Tobacco) Bill, 2001 provides for enabling powers for the Minister for Health and Children to prohibit or restrict smoking of tobacco prod ucts in many public places, including licensed premises. It is reasonable to extend environmental controls on smoking to more public places to ensure protection for the public from the harmful effects of environmental tobacco smoke. Following enactment of the Bill, I will be consulting with relevant interests about introducing new regulations to extend environmental controls on smoking to a number of public areas and facilities not included in existing regulations.