Visitors GuideA total smoking ban in all public places, such as bars and restaurants, is drawing heat again within the City. The issue was re-sparked at a City Council meeting on Tuesday, June 22 by Art Puddister, city councillor.
Puddister wants the council to ask the provincial government to introduce tougher legislation. He thinks it's about time that Newfoundland and Labrador came into the mainstream with North America and start having legislation which is consistent with other parts of Atlantic Canada and North America in general. Bars in areas such as Halifax, Toronto and Vancouver require people to smoke outside.
The province's medical association called for a similar smoking ban last summer, but groups representing restaurant and bar ownerss opposed the idea, saying it would eat into their business and cause layoffs.
The Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association applauded the province last year for initiatives to curb smoking in work and public places, particularly as it relates to the ban on smoking in restaurants that serve children.
What do you think about the proposed total smoking ban in all public spaces including bars and restaurants? Do you think this proposed change would affect your business, customers and staff? Should status qou be maintained? We would like to hear from you.
To Whom It May Concern:
I lived in Ottawa for approximately 10 years. During this time the smoking ban was put in place. Of course smokers were upset at first, but they got over it. I feel they do have the right to express their views on the situation, they have rights like anyone else. But what about the people that would like to enjoy these public places but do not because of the smoke. Do we not have rights? Economically, in the longrun, this ban would not affect businesses. Perhaps in the beginning a little, but people will still go out, as us non-smokers do. But this would overall be safer for everyone involved, including workers at these establishments who are on leave due to the working conditions affecting their health.
Thank you,
Christa Holloway
Recently, they successfully banned smoking in Toronto. It’s really important from the perspective of a musical performer to not have to suffer for your craft, at least not unnecessarily. The loss of business argument just isn't applicable, people will still come, and they do here in Toronto.
Posted by: Jamie Freeman at August 15, 2004 01:01 AM