Smokers back ban as VFI chiefs under fire

THE majority of smokers want publicans to enforce next January’s ban on smoking. According to a survey by the Office of Tobacco Control, 81% of the public, including 61% of smokers, believe publicans should obey the new regulation.

The findings were published as an internal row erupted within the Vintners Federation of Ireland which threatens to derail their objection to the ban.

There are expected to be several demands today for the resignation of VFI chief executive Tadg O’Sullivan and chairman Joe Browne when the 60-member national committee meets in Dublin.