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Fiji public smoking ban comes into force

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-07-03/an-fiji-public-smoking-ban-comes-into-force/4796662

Fiji public smoking ban comes into force

Updated Wed Jul 3, 2013 1:30pm AEST

Fiji’s ban on smoking in public places has come into force this month.

The revisions to last year’s Tobacco Control Regulation Act, which have come into effect this week, see major public areas like nightclubs, restaurants and retail outlets designated as smoke-free zones.

Smokers face a fine of up to $US105 if they light a cigarette in a public place, and owners face a fine of up to $525 if they allow smoking at their business.

Fiji’s health ministry says concerns about the impacts of smoking led to the country’s revised tobacco regulations.

The man who has lead the push for the new regulations is calling on the community to be vigilant in its efforts to maintain the country’s new smoke-free zones.

The new regulations have been preceded by a public awareness program over the past three months.

Head of the Tobacco Control Unit at the Health Ministry of Fiji, Aminiasi Tavui, has told Radio Australia’s Pacific Beat program the public for the most part supports the new regulations.

“We’ve been receiving positive feedback from the public,” he said.

Mr Tavui says enforcement officers have the power to give on the spot fines.

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First posted Wed Jul 3, 2013 1:11pm AEST

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