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Smokefree Workplaces - UCF Call for Clear and Immediate Decision
By Derval Keenan, 9/26/2005 2:57:38 PM
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The Ulster Cancer Foundation (UCF) today called for the Health Minister, Shaun Woodward to show a clear commitment to the future health of people in Northern Ireland by introducing comprehensive smokefree workplaces.
The Ulster Cancer Foundation (UCF) today called for the Health Minister, Shaun Woodward to show a clear commitment to the future health of people in Northern Ireland by introducing comprehensive smokefree workplaces.
The call for immediate action was made as the Minister prepares a statement, expected early next week, on the outcome of the consultation process on smokefree workplaces.
Gerry McElwee, Head of Cancer Prevention said, ?“It is vital that the Minister acts decisively on this issue. We will not tolerate any further delay, which would lead to further death and disease. The only way to achieve equal protection for all employees is to introduce comprehensive policies across all workplaces. The recent consultation resulted in a massive endorsement of Option C ?– a smoking ban in all workplaces and public spaces. It is time the Health Minister responded to the demands of local people for a healthy smokefree environment.
?“Smoking is the largest single cause of preventable death and ill health, killing 2,800 people in Northern Ireland every year. Ending smoking in workplaces and enclosed public places is the single most effective action the government could do to protect workers and encourage more smokers to quit.?”
UCF has been campaigning on this issue for over 20 years and has been the driving force behind mobilising health bodies to actively lobby for a smokefree environment. UCF remain confident that the Minister will not pass on the opportunity for effective action.
ENDS
For further information please contact:
Gerry McElwee at UCF
Tel. 028 9049 2007/ Mob. 07880 504577
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