Banning smoking in public areas 'must be discussed'
Updated | By Anelisa Kubheka
The Tobacco Institute of Southern Africa says while it supports government's plan to further reduce smoking in public areas, a complete ban is not the answer.
Health Minister, Aaron Motsoaledi has said that he wants to outlaw smoking areas in some public places, inside and outside buildings as well as e-cigarettes by re-looking at South Africa's tobacco legislation.
He says he is concerned about the risk of exposure to high levels of secondhand smoke.
The Institute's Francois Van der Merwe says Motsoaledi should consider consulting them on his plans.
He says there around 7-million tobacco users in the country.
"The minister needs to start consulting with consumers, with our hospitality industry and with those providing public places. Remember that public places belong to private owners. So, there needs to be consultations.
"We can achieve the minister's objectives by accommodating both smokers and non-smokers," he said.
Amendments to legislation could be introduced in Parliament next year.
(File photo)
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