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Yvonne Jones, MHA for the District of Cartwright - L’Anse
Au Clair and Opposition Critic for Health and Community Services, tabled a
private member’s motion in the House of Assembly this afternoon calling for
a complete ban on smoking in public places, including bars and bingo halls.
"The Liberal Opposition feels that it is time for
government to show leadership on this issue and move forward with a
provincial ban," said Jones. "I have met with stakeholder groups and we
believe it is time to move forward with legislative changes to protect the
health of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.
"There is substantial medical evidence that shows the
health implications arising from second hand smoke and this has put a strain
on the health care system. The previous government implemented a smoking ban
in all other public places in the past and now is the time to take the final
step towards a 100 per cent ban in all public places. This is a provincial
responsibility and government must take action to protect the health and
well-being of the public."
Private Members Motion
Tabled in the House of Assembly
Nov. 24/04
WHEREAS second hand smoke is a health hazard that has
caused serious health problems, death and a strain on the health care
system;
WHEREAS the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of
Municipalities has called upon government to enact a provincial ban to see a
100 per cent smoke free environment in public buildings, including bars and
bingos;
WHEREAS such community groups as the Alliance for the
Control of Tobacco, the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association, the
Music Industry Association, the Federation of Labour, and other
organizations have been calling upon government to implement a ban;
WHEREAS government has already banned smoking in
schools, hospitals, daycare centres, public buildings and restaurants;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that this House of Assembly
supports a ban to provide 100 per cent protection from second hand smoke in
all public places, including bars and bingo halls. |