Jerry Buttimer (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 389: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if the Health Service Executive is legally entitled to create a no-smoking ban on the grounds of the Cork University Hospital. [12626/11]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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Smoking is prohibited in most enclosed workplaces under the Public Health (Tobacco) Act 2002 (as amended). While there is no legal basis to introduce a ban on smoking on the grounds of the Cork University hospital, I would welcome the introduction of such an initiative.

Tobacco control is a key public health issue; according to the World Health Organisation, tobacco is the leading risk factor in premature mortality in the WHO European Region - causing about 1.6 million deaths a year. It is important that the Health Services provide leadership in creating an environment that promotes health in all circumstances.