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NON-SMOKING SEATS INCREASED TO 60 PER CENT

Released on December 30, 2003

The province has a new minimum non-smoking standard for public places. Effective January 1st, 2004, non-smoking sections in the province's restaurants, bars, bingo halls, casinos, and bowling centres must be at least 60 per cent of seating capacity.

This measure is part of The Tobacco Control Act, which became law in March, 2002. The Act called for a 40 per cent minimum standard for 2003, and a 60 per cent minimum for 2004.

The Tobacco Control Act focuses on protecting public health by preventing young people from smoking, reducing exposure to secondhand smoke, and de-normalizing tobacco use by making it the exception rather than the rule.

"The 60 per cent minimum brings us a significant step closer to a smoke-free province," Saskatchewan's Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Ross Findlater said. "Along with other aspects of The Tobacco Control Act, an increase in non-smoking seats in public places is contributing to our ongoing efforts to deal with the most important preventable cause of health problems in Saskatchewan."

The 60 per cent minimum standard will be in effect throughout the province, with Saskatchewan municipalities having the authority to pass bylaws that exceed 60 per cent. For example, the City of Regina has had an 80 per cent minimum standard for restaurants in place since July 1st, 2001, and the City of Moose Jaw is implementing a 100 per cent standard effective February 10th, 2004.

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For More Information, Contact:

Lindy McIntyre
Health
Regina
Phone: (306)787-8214

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