Jump to full article: The Royal Gazette (bm), 2006-04-01
Author: Elizabeth Roberts
Intro: The new law makes it illegal to light up in public places across the Island including bars, restaurants, hotels, offices and schools. Cigarette vending machines are also banned.
Those who break the rules could face a fine of $250 in the first instance and $1,000 fine for each repeat offence. However, there will be a six-month exemption from prosecution for people to get used to the new rules.
A ban on selling cigarettes to under-18s and tobacco advertising at sporting events has been in place since January 1.
Ian Gordon, president of Church Street-based Cuarenta Bucaneros, which supplies Cuban cigars, said: “I think that the legislation will have some impact on us, but it will not be major. Most of the hotels we supply have outside dining areas and patios, and in many cases already have a no-smoking policy within the building. I think the ban is more likely to affect pubs and clubs where cigarettes are part of the culture.”
He added: “One positive impact that the ban will have is that smokers will want to dine alfresco. It will also definitely have health benefits and improve the ambience and environment in most pubs and restaurants.”
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