Survey shows majority support smoking ban

A new survey shows a majority of people thinks publicans should obey the national workplace smoking ban.

The Office of Tobacco Control found 81% of people questioned think bar owners should comply with the law, including 61% of smokers. The new law takes effect at the end of next January.

Valerie Robinson from the OTC said: "This survey shows there is overwhelming public support for the law. It also tends to support the view that this measure to provide people - especially staff - with a safe, clean, healthy environment will, to a considerable extent, be self-enforcing.

"There are specific resources in place in each health board to enforce the smoke-free workplace regulations."