ASH Ireland: Partial smoking bans don't work

Anti-smoking group ASH Ireland has welcomed news that an outright ban on smoking in cars could be on the cards here.

Health Minister James Reilly has said he is in favour of stopping smokers lighting up when children under 16 are in the car with them. However, it is reported today that an outright ban might be considered, if the partial ban proved unworkable.

Professor Luke Clancy from ASH Ireland said a blanket ban would be more successful.

"The implementation of bans is very important. If you have a blanket ban, you have some chance of enforcing it. Partial bans don't work. They can't be applied," he said.