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Foundation Welcomes Public Wish to Enjoy Smoke-free
By Derval Keenan, 6/1/2005 12:21:45 PM
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The Ulster Cancer Foundation has given a warm welcome to the findings of a MORI survey which shows that 69% of the N. Ireland population favour a complete smoking ban in workplaces and public places.
Gerry McElwee, Head of Cancer Prevention, Ulster Cancer Foundation (UCF) said: ?“This research supports what the UCF have said for a number of years ?– there is overwhelming support from all sections and ages of our society for comprehensive smokefree policies in all workplaces.
The Ulster Cancer Foundation?’s work in this field over a number of years has shown us that smokers, non-smokers, employees, employers, unions and customers all agree that workers should not have to endure cancer-causing substances in the line of duty.
The food dye Sudan 1 was removed from retail outlets in a matter of days. We?’ve had clear evidence that second hand smoke cause cancer for over 20 years it?’s time for our Health Minister to stop procrastinating and to act now to protect local people. The N.Ireland public can bring this about by contacting the Health Minister and demanding Option 5C during the current consultation on smokefree workplaces. (See below)
Some in the licensing trade argue their own customers and employees should continue to be exposed to the lethal chemicals found in tobacco smoke. This argument is based on unfounded scaremongering that their profits will drop, yet this MORI report shows that 40% of people say they would socialise more often in smokefree environments while only 13% would go out less often. If the licensing trade refuse to act to protect the health of their own staff and customers, they should at least do it to ensure their own wealth. Recent UCF research shows that the vast majority of bar staff, 76%, want to enjoy the same protection as other groups of employees.
The health effects of Second Hand Smoke continue to mount, the UK?’s Scientific Committee on Tobacco and Health (SCOTH) recently said it is a substantial risk and no one should be exposed and this was backed up on Sunday by the WHO.?”
You must respond to the consultation with your support for Option 5.c before the 25th March 2005 in one of these ways:
Postcard: Complete a UCF postcard
Email: regional.strategy@dhsspsni.gov.uk
Or online: www.smokefreenorthernireland.com
www.dhsspsni.gov.uk
Or write to: Regional Strategy Team
Room C4.22
Castle Buildings
Stormont
Belfast
BT4 3SJ
For further information please contact:
Gerry McElwee, Head of Cancer Prevention, Ulster Cancer Foundation on
028 9049 2007 / 07880 504577
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