National smoking ban begins
From 1 February, France has implemented the first wave of a national smoking ban, with all health and administrative buildings, educational establishments and public transport becoming smoke-free areas. Smoking is also banned in all other workplaces, except in specially designated smoking rooms, which non-smokers would not have to enter for any reason.
Individuals breaking the law will be fined 65 euros. Companies and others who flout the ban will be fined 135 euros.
However, the French government will pay for nicotine substitutes and ‘willpower’ courses to help people who wish to quit the habit.
A hospital spokesman in Périgueux, in the south-west of the country, said: ‘Smoking has been banned for many years in all the hospital’s buildings and people who want a cigarette have had to go outside. We are now stepping up our efforts to encourage those members of our staff who smoke to quit, and explaining and emphasising to patients that it is the single most avoidable cause of death.’
The second part of the ban, which will affect bars, restaurants, hotels, casinos and cafes, will come into force in 1 January 2008.
08.03.2007
