Unions seek support for ban on workplace smoking

Ireland's three largest trade unions - SIPTU, IMPACT and Mandate - have written to all TDs seeking support for Health Minister Micheál Martin's proposed ban on smoking in the workplace.

The unions have criticised a proposal by Junior Minister Noel Davern to water down the proposed ban and allow one-third of pub space to be open to smokers.

IMPACT spokesman Bernard Harbour said: "We don't think there should be a concession. It's been proved scientifically that passive smoking can cause cancer, heart disease and other life-threatening illnesses.

"The unions involved represent more than 350,000 members and we want the Minister for Health to stand firm for a total ban on smoking in the workplace."