Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 28 Mar 1990

Vol. 397 No. 6

Written Answers. - Publicity Campaign.

Enda Kenny

Ceist:

151 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Health if he intends to implement a full publicity campaign to inform the public of the conditions and regulations of the Tobacco (Health Promotion and Protection) Regulations, 1990, which come into effect on 1 May 1990; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Dr. O'Hanlon)

A publicity campaign to inform the general public of the provisions of the Tobacco (Health Promotion and Protection) Regulations, 1990, has already commenced. The campaign will inform the public of the restrictions and prohibition on smoking in designated areas and facilities and will also target the relevant authorities who control such places to ensure compliance with the regulations.

My announcement earlier this month of the effective date, May, of the restrictions and prohibition of smoking in public places generated widespread publicity and served as an introduction to the media campaign planned for April. The media campaign involves the use of outdoor poster sites nationally and national newspaper coverage over a three week period. The widespread distribution of an information pamphlet outlining the main provision of the regulations is already underway. In addition, the Health Promotion Unit of my Department will be distributing information to the various health agencies, public bodies and to the relevant trade, educational, sporting and entertainment interests covered by the regulations to appraise them of the new requirements.

The restriction on smoking in public places is an important part of my anti-smoking strategy and I am confident that the new provisions will be generally adhered to.