Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 4 February 2004
281 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children , further to Question No. 174 of 11 December 2003, the progress made on the issue; when he intends to introduce the ban; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3396/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraEnforcement of regulations prohibiting smoking in specified places, including decisions to prosecute a person for an alleged breach of the regulations, is a matter for the authorised officers from the appropriate enforcement agencies, such as the health boards and the Office of Tobacco Control.
Guidelines to assist staff employed in licensed premises in complying with regulations prohibiting smoking are being finalised by the Office of Tobacco Control, which is in contact with representatives from the licensed trade.
In the event of a prosecution being taken, it would be a matter for the court to decide if the defendant had taken reasonable efforts to comply.
I will make a decision on the new date for commencement of the smoke-free workplaces regulations in the near future.
