Smokers reminded to stub out in public

Government officials issued a reminder this week to smokers that smoking is not permitted inside public places or within ten feet of public buildings. The 2008 Tobacco Law and 2010 regulations prevent people from smoking in bars and restaurants, office buildings, businesses and other enclosed areas as well as up to10 ft. from any entry, exit or other opening. The Medical Officer of Health Dr Kiran Kumar said a public place means any place, including a workplace or public conveyance to which members of the public have access whether or not a fee is charged for entry. The Law describes an “enclosed place” as a place which has a full or partial roof with at least 50% of its sides covered with walls, windows, blinds or curtains. Anyone who smokes in a public place is liable for summary conviction to a fine of $2000 for their first offence and up to $10,000 for the second offence. The list of smoke free places includes all offices, office buildings, warehouses and places of work, common areas in apartment buildings, condominiums and retirement homes, health care facilities and their grounds, educational facilities and their grounds, gyms, parks (including marine parks) and sport stadiums, beauty parlours, barber shops and Laundromats, enclosed bars, and restaurants, any means of transport (including boats) used for commercial, public or professional purposes and used by more than one person, all government owned facilities, public toilets and public transportation terminals (e.g. the cruise terminals), all shops and shopping centres, concert and convention halls, pool halls and shopping centres. Dr Kumar also reminded merchants that cigarettes can only be sold in full packages as prepared by the manufacturers. Hence, it is illegal to sell single cigarettes.