31 May 2005

"Change is in the air" in NSW pubs & clubs

The NSW Government begins a six-week advertising campaign today-World No Tobacco Day-in the lead up to the latest smoking changes in NSW pubs and clubs.

From July 4, 2005 smoking will be restricted to one part of NSW pubs, clubs and the casino, and by July, 2007 they will be completely smoke free indoors.

The "Change Is In The Air" campaign, which features Irish comedian Dave Callan, will run on TV, radio and print to flag the new law with the NSW public.

"This is just the latest change in the progressive move to ban smoking in all indoor areas of licensed premises in NSW by 2007," Frank Sartor, Minister assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), said. "The incremental approach taken in NSW allows the public to adjust to the new rules and also gives licensed premises sufficient time to address any practical changes.

NSW is not alone. Since March 2004, Ireland, Norway, New Zealand, Uganda, Bhutan and Italy have all passed smoke-free workplace legislation.

The 2004 Irish ban on smoking in bars has proved popular. Compliance with the law has been extremely high and a recent survey found 70% of people thought the smoke-free rule had improved their experience in bars.

Research conducted by the Cancer Institute NSW in March this year showed:

• 88% of non-smokers, and 42% of smokers, felt bothered by other people's smoke in public places.
• 87% believed that all workers have the right to work in a smoke free workplace and 92% believed all indoor workplaces should be completely smoke free.
• 50% of people (74% of non-smokers/26% smokers) try to avoid situations that are likely to be smoky.

"The evidence on the damage done by environmental tobacco smoke just keeps on growing," Professor Jim Bishop, head of the Cancer Institute, said. "Research indicates that one 8 hour shift in a smoky bar can expose workers to the same carcinogens as smoking half a pack of cigarettes.

For a range of health information, go online to www.health.nsw.gov.au