World No Tobacco Day Recognized in Newfoundland and Labrador

Promoting and encouraging healthy living and smoking prevention continues to be a priority of the Provincial Government. Recently, new legislation was introduced in the House of Assembly to further protect children and employees from second-hand smoke. This legislation is consistent with World No Tobacco Day (May 31), an annual celebration by the World Health Organization to inform the public about the dangers of using tobacco and what people around the world can do to protect their health and the health of those around them.

“Our observation of World No Tobacco Day illustrates our government’s continuing commitment in promoting a healthy lifestyle for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians,” said the Honourable Jerome Kennedy, Minister of Health and Community Services. “Our amendments to the Smoke-Free Environment Act show we have taken action to further enhance the health and well-being of residents throughout our province. In addition, the Provincial Government continues to invest significantly to support people in the cessation of smoking. Our investments include annual funding for the Smoker’s Helpline, which assists those who wish to quit.”

The amendments to the Smoke-Free Environment Act (2005), which are effective July 1, 2011, ensure greater protection of children and workers by banning smoking in motor vehicles when children under the age of 16 are present, as well as banning designated smoking rooms in workplaces.

“We are working to provide enhanced protection for every resident of our province,” said Minister Kennedy. “Though smoking is harmful to everyone, the effects it has on children are far more severe. Children who are exposed to second-hand smoke are more susceptible to acute health effects such as asthma, bronchitis and pneumonia.”

To raise awareness about the Provincial Government’s new legislation, a public awareness campaign will be launched to inform and prepare the public, in particular parents, that smoking will be prohibited in motor vehicles carrying children under the age of 16. The campaign will also help increase public compliance. The hope is through the legislation and new awareness campaign, children in Newfoundland and Labrador can breathe easier.

For more information about the Smoke-Free Environment Act or the public awareness campaign, visit
www.gov.nl.ca/health/wellnesshealthyliving/smokefree.html 

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Media contact:
Jennifer Tulk
Director of Communications
Department of Health and Community Services
709-729-1377, 699-6524
JenniferTulk@gov.nl.ca

2011 05 31             10:45 a.m.