Final fuming weekend for smokers

Smoking will be banned in public places from 30 April

This weekend marks the final few days for smokers to light up in Northern Ireland's bars.

The smoking ban comes into force on Monday 30 April.

Local authorities will enforce the new law which prohibits smoking in all workplaces, most enclosed public spaces and public transport.

Businesses will have to ensure no-one smokes in their premises and must display no-smoking signs. Councils have issued guidelines to businesses.

They are urging businesses to advise staff and customers of the areas and vehicles which will be smoke-free.

They also advise:

Ensure you have the correct signage displayed at all your public entrances of smoke-free premises and vehicles (more signage can be downloaded from www.spacetobreathe.org.uk)

Make sure you have provided facilities for disposing of cigarette ends in your smoking areas/shelters

Have procedures in place to deal with someone lighting up

Before you open for business on 30 April, take ashtrays off tables and away from smoke-free areas.

Smoke-Free legislation is intended to protect public health by reducing exposure to second-hand smoke in enclosed workplaces and public places.

It is coming into force following a major public consultation exercise by the Department of Health between December 2004 and March 2005.

Businesses can contact their local district council's environmental health department to receive more information.