Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I am not a smoker. The last time I had a cigarette in my hand was 36 years ago and I am glad it is as far back as that. Smoking is not illegal. While I am supportive of the idea of ending smoking as a practice in this institution, it would send out a much stronger message if, through a process of consultation with Members and staff, we had voluntary compliance with a non-smoking practice across the institution. I think that would give out a much stronger message and tick the box in terms of real leadership rather than imposing a ban.

I would like to see an end to the practise of smoking in this institution and I would like to see the end of smoking full stop. However, I know some will point to the hypocrisy that we are legislators yet we would impose a ban on this institution but are not prepared to consider imposing a ban on smoking per se across the country. We know the consequences of doing that would drive smoking underground and would end up adding only to the profiteering of criminals. The truth of the matter is that voluntary compliance is the most important, strongest and most sustainable approach to this practice.

While I am wholly sympathetic to what Senator Crown passionately argues for, I know the number of people who work here outnumber the elected voices. I believe there should be engagement and consultation with them. This committee should give the lead but it should be through consultation and engagement with Members and, as of right, the staff who work in this institution on the premise of encouraging voluntary compliance to explore what can be achieved. It would be a wonderful achievement if the Leinster House complex could declare itself a smoke-free zone. I am 100% behind that but I believe there is a better way to achieve it than by the imposition of a ban.

If the motion is pressed, I will of course wish the exercise success and will play my part in encouraging compliance. The decision is not ours in terms of whether such a ban will be implemented, but it will be an expression of views. I hope the views of all members honestly expressed would be respected and conveyed in association with whatever decision is finally reached after this discussion.