SASKATCHEWAN PUBLIC PLACES SMOKE-FREE ON JANUARY 1ST, 2005

Released on December 23, 2004

Health Minister John Nilson today reminded provincial residents that Saskatchewan's public places will be 'butting out' as of January 1st, 2005.

"The people of our province will soon be protected from the devastating health effects of second-hand smoke," Nilson said. "The majority of Saskatchewan people, four out of five, do not smoke. The majority of Saskatchewan people want smoke-free public places. This January 1st will be especially significant as, together, we celebrate a healthy new year by going smoke-free."

The Tobacco Control Amendment Act received royal assent on June 17th, 2004. It prohibits smoking in all enclosed public places such as restaurants, bars, bingo halls, casinos, bowling alleys, taxis, and private clubs, effective January 1st, 2005.

Other amendments include giving municipalities the jurisdiction to enact bylaws to restrict smoking in outdoor places such as open air sports events and entrances to public buildings, and a ban on the sale of tobacco products in youth-frequented establishments such as amusement parks, theatres and arcades.

Saskatchewan public health inspectors have responsibility for enforcing the Act. Their initial focus regarding the smoke-free enclosed public place provision will be informational and educational. They will inform businesses about the Act and about the steps needed to comply with the law. They will also be educating businesses on the health benefits of a no-smoking establishment.

"This strong educational approach is the one being used throughout the country," Nilson said. "It has been used with success in our Saskatchewan cities that have already gone smoke-free. We want to give public places every opportunity to comply with the law."

The Tobacco Control Amendment Act continues Saskatchewan's role as a world leader in tobacco control. With The Tobacco Control Act of 2001, Saskatchewan became the first jurisdiction in North America to proclaim a law that bans the promotion and display of tobacco products in retail stores where young people have access. The purpose of this provision is to de-normalize the use of tobacco in our society so that young people do not grow up viewing smoking as a normal or accepted activity.

Both The Tobacco Control Act and The Tobacco Control Amendment Act are key to promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing disease throughout Saskatchewan. These Acts focus on keeping young people from smoking, reducing exposure to second-hand smoke and de-normalizing tobacco use by making it the exception rather than the rule.

The smoke-free enclosed public place amendment is part of a growing trend to move toward a healthier, smoke-free society. In Saskatchewan, five municipalities have passed smoke-free bylaws. In Canada, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Nunavut and Northwest Territories have implemented smoke-free legislation. Ontario and Newfoundland have announced plans for smoking bans within the next two years. Worldwide, countries such as Britain and Iceland have announced plans for smoke-free public places. Ireland is already smoke-free.

"Tobacco use is the leading cause of disease and premature death in Canada," Nilson said. "Our government is committed to protecting the health of Saskatchewan people, reducing tobacco use in this province, and stopping preventable disease. We are committed to building safe and healthy lives across this province. And we are committed to supporting those who are taking responsibility for protecting their own health and the health of their families and communities."

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For More Information, Contact:

Pete Paczko Health Regina Phone: (306) 787-4083