Vol. 564 No. 1
219 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the enforcement mechanisms to be established following the introduction of the ban on smoking in public houses; the estimated cost of the enforcement and the personnel involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8682/03]
I expect that the vast majority of customers will comply with the new health and safety measures when introduced next January.
The owner, occupier or person in charge of a licensed premises is legally responsible for ensuring compliance with health and safety requirements as well as other legislation relating, for example, to fire safety, food hygiene and the control of the sale of alcohol and tobacco products to under-age persons.
As part of the process of monitoring compliance with health and safety requirements authorised officers from the health boards and Office of Tobacco Control will visit licensed premises as part of their enforcement duties.
220 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the role which the Garda will have regarding the enforcement of the ban on smoking in public houses; the additional resources to be provided to the Garda in such circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8683/03]
The owner, occupier or person in charge of a licensed premises is legally responsible for ensuring compliance with the health and safety requirements on the premises. A decision to call the Garda to a premises for whatever reason is a matter for the person in charge.
