Pub smoking ban 'inevitable'
March 23, 2004
CLOSE to 70 per cent of NSW club and pub managers are concerned about the effects of passive smoking on the health of staff and patrons, according to a new report.
The Attitudes To Going Smoke Free report, a study released today by the National Heart Foundation of Australia (NSW division), also found 72 per cent of managers say a total smoking ban is inevitable and 83 per cent agree legislation is the most appropriate way forward.
The Heart Foundation and NSW branches of the Australian Medical Association, the Asthma Foundation and the Cancer Council are calling on the state government to legislate to make pubs and clubs smoke free this year.
Heart Foundation executive director Tony Thirlwell said there was obviously concern about the health effects of passive smoking.
"Every day hospitality workers continue to put their health on the line," he said.
"When a majority of managers accept that a total smoking ban is on the way, why delay?"
Mr Thirlwell said bans on smoking were already being introduced by many countries.
"New York has had smoking bans for a year and Ireland goes smoke-free next week. If they can do it, why can't NSW?"
The study also found two-thirds of managers believe their business is less likely to suffer if all venues are subject to a smoking ban.
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