Smoking ban 'will help quitters'

A smoking ban will be implemented by next April

The ban on smoking in Northern Ireland will encourage almost 40% of smokers to try to quit, a survey has suggested.

The ban will come into effect in all workplaces and enclosed public spaces, including pubs, from April next year.

The public is currently being asked to help shape legislation which will introduce a smoking ban.

The charity, No Smoking Day, said 38% of Northern Ireland smokers felt the ban would make them try to stop - compared to 22% of smokers nationwide.

The charity's Ben Youdan said the response to the ban from smokers in Northern Ireland was "fantastic".

"It proves that MPs were absolutely right to take the bull by the horns and vote for an outright ban on smoking," he said.

"The ban was clearly the impetus people needed to help them decide to give up for good. The knock-on effects for their own health, and that of their children and partners, will be incalculable."

'Protecting the health'

Wednesday is national No Smoking Day.

Judith West of the Ulster Cancer Foundation said introducing smoke-free policies in public places was "one of the most effective things that can be done to encourage smokers to kick the habit".

"This No Smoking Day we are delighted to be working with The Streat Cafe chain which has 13 outlets in Northern Ireland which will all be permanently smoke-free from today.

Nationally 22% said they "would quit for sure"

"Their decision to implement a no smoking policy in advance of the introduction of smoke-free legislation next year, demonstrates their commitment to protecting the health of their staff and customers."

The consultation on the ban seeks comments in areas such as a definition of smoking; the definition of smoke-free premises; the extent of any proposed exemptions; offences and level of penalties and requirement for fixed penalties.

The consultation period ends on 5 May.

The Republic of Ireland banned smoking in workplaces and public spaces in 2004.