A MAJORITY of Cypriots support the proposed ban on smoking in public, according to a quick opinion poll by the University of Nicosia ahead of the Parliamentary vote on this measure, set for today.
Sixty-one per cent of 200 people polled were in favour of a complete ban on smoking in all public places, while 21 per cent prefer to have designated smoking areas.
In the rest of Europe, the UK and Ireland were the first to endorse a full smoking ban in all work and public spaces, while eight other member states – Italy, Malta, Sweden, Latvia, Finland, Slovenia, France and the Netherlands – allow for special enclosed smoking rooms. Only 18 per cent of Cypriot respondents were opposed to any type of smoking ban.
Many respondents ascribed ulterior motives to opponents of the draft law, with 35 per cent agreeing that politicians who oppose a smoking ban are protecting certain interest groups. By contrast, 42 per cent agreed that politicians who support a smoking ban are looking after the broad interests of society.
Interestingly, eight per cent felt that public figures who oppose a smoking ban are defending people’s freedoms.
Opponents of this measure claim that the economy will suffer if smoking is banned in entertainment venues. Proponents, however, consider it unthinkable that people would give up outings to restaurants, coffee shops and night spots simply because they can’t smoke indoors. Research done in other member states that have implemented similar legislation confirms that entertainment venues have not taken a serious blow on account of this measure.
The 18-24 age group was less favourable towards a ban than their older counterparts, with 35 per cent positioning themselves against the measure. According to the university, this result points to the need to strengthen anti-smoking education in school.
A statement by the university maintains that despite various initiatives to discourage smoking among the young, the opinion poll suggests that this age group is not getting the message.
Perhaps it is not surprising when one considers that too many of those who should be setting an example – especially their parents and teachers – are smokers themselves. As a recent nationwide survey of over 3,000 households conducted by the University of Nicosia reveals, 65 per cent of the population smokes daily, while seven per cent smoke occasionally.
Most respondents (70%) also support the House Health Committee’s recommendation that the ban be implemented after a grace period of a few months to allow the public to get used to the idea.
The university believes the Cypriot public is clearly ready to embrace further non-smoking measures, even a full smoking ban.
“While some have claimed that our society is not willing to conform with the proposed law, the opinion poll reveals strong support for such a measure,” the statement read.
The opinion poll covered a nationwide sample of 200 people aged 18-65 and was conducted by telephone by the University of Nicosia Research Foundation, between July 6-7.
