Dear Editor

There has been much talk in the media and political spheres of an impending smoking ban in public places. Minister of Health Dr Fenton Ferguson has indicated that plans to move regulations forward to ensure that the Tobacco Control Bill is passed is a high priority of his ministry. This is a credible and brave move by the minister as he seeks to have Jamaica compliant with the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), of which Jamaica has been signatory since 2005.

Indeed, regulations are prudent, as Jamaicans retain the right to smoke-free environments. However, for owners of hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs and casinos – businesses whose patrons tend to smoke while being entertained – this pending law takes on added significance. The minister ought to ensure, as he seeks to bring this tobacco Bill to Cabinet, that these regulations are balanced and respects the rights of smokers and non-smokers, that it details not only places where smoking is outlawed, but provides outdoor smoking solutions.

Laws passed must make provisions for where smoking is allowed. Business owners will still need consumers, even those who smoke, to patronise their establishments. The minister ought to consider making provisions that speak to the creation of outdoor spaces for patrons of these establishments who will no longer be permitted to smoke indoors under the law.

A smoking ban must not equate to the ostracism of smokers and the loss of patronage – and profit – for taxpaying businessmen.

Dane Crump

d.crump006@gmail.com