Martin plan to ban smoking in pubs is 'unworkable'

VINTNERS claim that next year's ban on smoking in pubs will be unworkable and accuse Health Minister Micheál Martin of overreacting.

The Vintners Federation of Ireland, which represents 6,000 publicans outside of Dublin, said they were greatly concerned about how a total ban in pubs could be enforced and who would police it. "We believe a total ban on smoking is an overreaction and clean-air solutions provide a workable alternative," said VFI chief executive Tadg O'Sullivan.

The Licensed Vintners Association, which represents about 750 vintners in the greater Dublin area, warned of