Martin criticised for 'indecision' on smoking ban

The Irish Hospitality Industry Alliance has criticised Health Minister Micheál Martin for failing to tell the public when his proposed smoking ban will take effect.

Mr Martin said yesterday that he would announce a start date for the measure "in a few weeks’ time".

The IHIA, a group of publicans, restaurateurs and hoteliers opposed to the proposed ban, said the ongoing "foot-dragging" by the minister was descending into farce.

It also claimed that a lack of environmental health officers to police the ban would lead to discriminatory enforcement.