Under the proposed new Act, scheduled for implementation in Spring 2003, some public places will be totally smoke-free. These include retail stores, malls, early childhood centres, recreational facilities, educational facilities, public transportation, movie theatres, libraries, art galleries and museums.

Smoking in workplaces and other public places such as restaurants and bars will only be permitted in designated smoking areas that meet legislated requirements. Designated smoking areas are defined in the Act as either outdoor areas that are structurally separated from non-smoking areas, or are enclosed rooms equipped with an independent ventilation system that meet the legislated requirements.

The Act proposes that employees will not be required to enter or work in a designated smoking room, and it is intended that food or beverages will not be served in designated smoking rooms. Inspectors will be designated under the Act to monitor compliance.

Minister Ballem advised that the proposed legislation responds to overwhelming public support for provincial legislation to protect people from second-hand smoke at work and in public places. "This is a major step forward in the promotion and protection of the health of Islanders. Smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke are killers and are preventable," he said. "Recent polls suggest that 84 percent of Islanders are supportive of such legislation. The Act was designed to provide all Islanders with the same level of protection from second-hand smoke. The legislation is fair and enforceable, balancing the interests of owners and operators of public places and workplaces, workers and the general public."

An advisory committee will be established by government to develop regulations to support the new Act and to continue to monitor compliance.