NLIS 1
June 30, 2005
(Health and Community Services)
New smoke-free legislation to take
effect tonight
Newfoundlanders and Labradorians will enjoy
cleaner, healthier air and safer public places when the Smoke-free Environment
Act 2005 takes effect at midnight tonight, Health and Community Services
Minister John Ottenheimer said today.
"Today marks the beginning of a healthier Newfoundland and Labrador. The smoking
ban in all enclosed public places including bingo halls, bars and their patios
and decks is a significant achievement that demonstrates government�s commitment
to strengthening public health in this province," said Minister Ottenheimer.
Initial enforcement will be conducted by environmental health officers with the
Department of Government Services in conjunction with liquor establishment
inspectors. The Newfoundland and Labrador Liquor Corporation will be hiring six
additional inspectors to strengthen enforcement throughout the province. Those
inspectors will be responsible for enforcement of the Smoke-free Environment
Act, 2005 in bars and bingo halls and the Liquor Control Act.
A toll-free number has been set up for the public to register complaints about
establishments which are not complying with the ban. Inspectors will investigate
these complaints and, if determined to be valid, appropriate enforcement action
will be taken. The number is 1-888-733-2511.
"Ensuring sufficient resources for and dedication to enforcement highlights
government�s commitment to the act," said Dianne Whalen, Minister of Government
Services. "Inspectors will be ready to ensure that the requirements of the new
law are met. Non-compliance will result in penalties for establishment owners
and those individuals who deliberately defy the legislation."
Individuals convicted of smoking in prohibited areas will face a fine of between
$50 and $500, while owners, operators or employers may be fined between $500 and
$5,000.
The smoke-free legislation reflects the growing trend across the country to move
toward a healthier, smoke-free society. The provinces of Manitoba, New
Brunswick, Saskatchewan, along with the Northwest Territories and Nunavut have
implemented smoke-free legislation. The Province of Quebec has also recently
announced its intention to proceed with similar legislation.
Media contact:
Carolyn Chaplin, Health and Community Services, (709) 729-1377, 682-5093
Vanessa Colman-Sadd, Government Services, (709) 729-4860, 682-6593
2005 06 30
9:35 a.m.
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