David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 81: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if research has been or will be carried out or into the effect of the smoking ban on consumer behaviour, the hospitality industry and tourism; the way in which the ban has affected businesses and the sales of cigarettes, alcohol, food and beverages; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5645/05]

Seán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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On 29 March 2004 most enclosed places of work became smoke free. The primary purpose of this measure is to protect the health of workers and the public from exposure to toxic second-hand tobacco smoke. The Deputy will appreciate that decisions in regard to workplace safety are not influenced by considerations relating to their effect on trade. A survey on the smoke free workplace measure commissioned by my Department was carried out by a market survey company and published in August 2004. The figures show that of those surveyed 82% support the smoke free at work measure; 90% agreed that going smoke free is of benefit to workers; 82% agreed that it benefits everyone in public places; and 95% agreed that the legislation is a positive health measure.

The survey reported a positive response to socialising in smoke free hospitality venues with a majority of people confirming that the new smoke free legislation improved their experience in pubs, 70%, and restaurants, 78%. More than half of respondents, 53%, indicated that they would be more inclined to eat in a pub since 29 March 2004. Research carried out by Fáilte Ireland, the National Tourism Development Authority, in respect of 2004 shows that 97% of visitors would recommend a holiday in Ireland. With regard to the smoke free measure, the research showed 77% of overseas visitors were in favour with 26% saying they would be more likely to holiday in Ireland as a result and 5% saying they would be less likely to holiday here.

With regard to the impact of the smoke free workplace measure on sales of cigarettes, alcohol, food and beverages my Department has not commissioned any research. However, provisional figures from the Revenue Commissioners indicated that sales of cigarettes have decreased by 10% in 2004 as compared to 2003. The media have reported that beer sales in licensed premises have declined in recent years and this is ongoing. However this is being attributed to a number of factors and not only the introduction of the smoke free measure.