Visitors GuideSt. John's city council will hold a public meeting next month to get reaction to a proposed bylaw restricting or banning smoking in public places
A special committee set up by city hall is recommending the bylaw.
Coun. Art Puddister says after reviewing the rules in other Canadian cities, the committee has three options for council to consider:
1. Smoking only be allowed in designated smoking areas. Designated smoking areas should be no larger than 25 per cent of the public space in the building excluding foyers, stairways, washrooms, cloak rooms and the bar area.
2. Option 1, plus including an additional provision that designated smoking areas be phased out over three years, thereby being completely eliminated by 2008.
3. A total smoking ban in all enclosed public spaces.
The idea of an anti-smoking bylaw has met with both support and opposition.
The public meeting is scheduled for Oct. 14.
Provincial regulations have banned smoking in restaurants since 2002.
CBC Radio Tuesday, September 21, 2004
