Tobacco.org

Smoking controls come into effect 

Cafes and restaurants yesterday scrambled to prepare for the introduction of European Union-dictated smoking restrictions as the Health Ministry issued the official decision explaining their obligations at the eleventh hour.

The ministry circulated the text of the decision to all municipal and prefectural authorities which have been deluged with queries from owners of bars and nightspots unclear about the changes they need to make to their premises. Ministry officials also announced the creation of a team of inspectors whose responsibility it will be to patrol bars and restaurants and determine whether the new smoking restrictions are being adhered to or not.

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