Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 11 Mar 2003

Vol. 563 No. 1

Written Answers - Smoking Ban.

Seán Crowe

Question:

427 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Health and Children if his Department contacted transport service providers to encourage stricter enforcement of the smoking regulations on public transport in view of his Department's stated opposition to smoking and the health implications of passive smoking; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7265/03]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

From time to time complaints are received in my Department regarding smoking on designated non-smoking public transport services, and these are referred to the appropriate service provider for investigation.

Smoking is prohibited on all public service vehicles owned or operated by Dublin Bus. Under Dublin Bus by-laws, authorised persons, including inspectors, drivers and conductors, have powers to enforce regulations in this area. I am advised that Dublin Bus currently operates plain- clothes monitoring to detect breaches of smoking by-laws on its services. Dublin Bus has also advised me that in 2002 this operation resulted in 80 prosecutions, with fines ranging from €50 to €240. I am advised that Dublin Bus proposes to continue with this type of covert monitoring operation this year. This approach is a very positive one and deserves our full support.