Cyprus Smoking Ban For January 2010

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As of January 2010, smoking in public places in Cyprus will be officially banned.
 

The law, passed on Thursday, will include restaurants, bars and nightclubs, amongst many other working establishments. Anyone caught smoking in a prohibited area may face a fine of up to €2000.

 
EU Health Commissioner, Androulla Vassiliou welcomed the smoking ban and called on the cooperation of Cypriots to make an effort in embracing the new rules.

 
It will be interesting to see how the new law will be adopted as many Cypriots currently smoke.

 
So during the New Years Eve party, after midnight the ban will come into effect. Will the police or inspectors come out in force and break up the party atmosphere?

 
Cyprus has had a smoking ban in public places such as pubs and restaurants with special designated, ventilated areas for smokers since 2003. However, the law has never really been taken seriously; smoking can still be seen in a lot of work places including government buildings.

 
Spain also adopted a smoking ban in public places, however three years on and nothing much has changed. Part of the law was that restaurant and bar owners 'choose' if they wish to have complete smoke free environment or they can allow smoking but have to put a sign outside displaying the fact that smoking is permitted on the premises.

 
Only time will tell if anything will change in Cyprus.
 

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