Mandate calls for total smoking ban in pubs

The Mandate trade union has called on Health Minister Micheal Martin to introduce a total ban on smoking in pubs.

Earlier today, the minister confirmed that he plans to ban smoking in restaurants and in pubs while food is being served, but Mandate said the pub ban should be extended to prevent its members from inhaling second-hand smoke in the workplace.

The Vintners Association of Ireland has expressed reservations about the Minister's plans, saying they may be unworkable.