Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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To ask the Minister for Health the reason there is a clamp down on designated smoking areas in pubs as this has an impact on jobs. [9667/13]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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Smoking is prohibited in most enclosed workplaces under section 47 of the Public Health (Tobacco) Acts, 2002 and 2004. Environmental health officers have had enforcement powers to inspect premises and ensure that they are in compliance with the legislation since its commencement in 2004. As the Deputy is aware, the work place ban was introduced to protect third parties such as workers, from the ill-effects of exposure to second-hand smoke. The World Health Organisation Report on the Global Tobacco Epidemic, 2009 - Implementing Smoke Free Environments, noted that smoke free environments result in either a neutral or positive impact on businesses including the hospitality sector.