Smoking ban in WA Pubs and Clubs Inevitable
Western Australian Health Minister Jim McGinty has put publicans and owners of entertainment venues on notice that there will be a complete ban in enclosed spaces in the not-too-distant future.
The comments follow the Victorian and New South Wales governments’ very recent proposals to ban smoking in pubs, clubs and bars by July 2007. Other States have also introduced the changes, with Tasmania planning to ban smoking in all licensed areas, including casinos from January 2006 and Queensland banning smoking in all licensed premises and outdoor areas where food or drinks are served from July 2006.
South Australia has also proposed that all licensed premises be smoke free from October 2007.
Mr McGinty said that although there was no definite time frame for the changes to commence in WA, the Government was committed to adopting the recommendations of next year’s review of the Health (Smoking in Public Places) Regulations 1999 (WA).
The Australian Medical Association is, however, pushing for the ban to be implemented early next year, as opposed to waiting for the review of the regulations.
The Liquor, Hospitality and Miscellaneous Workers’ Union and the Cancer Council of WA are also backing the changes, with comments being made that WA is lagging behind other States that have already set dates to ban smoking in enclosed spaces.
These moves follow some overseas developments in this regard.
The Republic of Ireland in particular has led the way with the imposition of total smoke bans in bars and restaurants. Smokers congregate outside as a consequence. The impact on the liquor trade is not said to be damaging. The sale and installation of awnings and lightweight shelters is beginning to boom as licensees prepare for the onset of winter.
Carla Paratore, solicitor
9288 6940
Dan Mossenson, chairman of partners
9288 6769
Phillips Fox