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N Ireland Smoke Ban Introduced

Northern Ireland has stubbed out smoking for good with a ban in cafes, bars and restaurants as well as workplaces coming into force.

Research suggests 95 per cent of people support the legislation which is already in effect in Scotland and Wales and will be introduced across England in two months. 

After a lengthy build-up to the big day the Government says support for the legislation is high and it is confident it will translate into a high level of compliance.  But environmental health officers and other specialised no-smoking officials will be out in force across the province to ensure the ban is upheld. 

"Enforcement action will be taken where it is warranted," said the Government's chief environmental officer Nigel McMahon.  Fixed penalty notices of £50 will be slapped on any smoker who insists on lighting up in a pub or other enclosed public place - while business premises themselves face fines of up to £2,500 if they fail to enforce the ban. 

The Ulster Cancer Foundation said the ban marked a new chapter in the health of the population.  Gerry McElwee, head of cancer prevention at the charity, said: "We are absolutely confident that it will be an overwhelming success.  "All around the world smoke-free legislation has improved health, been implemented easily and had no negative economic impact."