Australia - ACT - outdoor smoking ban passed but start delayed..

ACT Coat-of_Arms:

December 9, 2009 - The anti-smoking lobby group, Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), says the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Government has been too slow in moving to ban smoking at outdoor entertainment venues.

Prior news brief: Australia ACT - smokers may be banned outdoors where food/drinks are served.., October 18, 2009.

The Legislative Assembly yesterday passed legislation prohibiting smoking in outdoor dining and drinking areas. It also bans smoking at children's events. But the new laws will not apply for another 12 months.

Dr Alan Shroot from Action on Smoking and Health says there is no reason for the delay. Shroot: "It should've happened a long time ago and it's very disappointing it's going to take 12 months." "But nevertheless the Government are to be congratulated for actually getting this legislation through."

Dr Shroot says hospitality workers should not have to put up with passive smoking for another year. "Passive smoking is the cause of considerable amount of ill health in the community and indeed premature death," he said.

Tobacco smoking is already banned in enclosed areas, but the new law, passed by the ACT Legislative Assembly, will extend that to outside areas of restaurants and cafés.
Pubs and clubs will be able to designate an outdoor smoking area of not more than 50 per cent of their outdoor space, though food and drink will not be permitted in the designated smoking areas, and people under the age of 18 will not be allowed into those areas.

Reference: Outdoor smoking ban delay 'disappointing', Australian Broadcasting Corporation, 12/9/2009.

Some related news briefs - ACT:
Australia ACT - smokers may be banned outdoors where food/drinks are served..;
Australian Capital Territory (ACT) smoking in cars when kids are present..;
Tobacco retail display ban proposed for Canberra - The Australian Capital Territory (ACT)..;
Tobacco displays are on their way out in an increasing number of countries...