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Ottawa:
On April 25, 2001, City Councillors took a
courageous stand for health. After debate on
several amendments that would have watered down the
by-laws, all 22 members of Council voted in favour
of 100% smoke-free by-laws for public places and
workplaces, with no allowances for designated
smoking rooms. "It was a historic day for public
health in Ottawa, and a landmark achievement for
the New City," stated Dr. Robert Cushman, Medical
Officer of Health. The community told us they were
ready for a smoke-free city and Council listened."
"Within
a decade, most North American cities will have this
kind of basic health and safety regulation in place
and it will seem commonplace," said Councillor Alex
Munter, Chair of the City's Health, Recreation and
Social Services Committee. "The leadership City
Council has shown in putting health protection
first means we can be proud of Ottawa's place as
one of the first major cities to pass this kind of
life-saving by-law." The
by-laws that will go into effect on August 1, 2001
mean that all citizens of Ottawa will be protected
from second-hand smoke in all public places and
workplaces. This includes establishments such as
restaurants, bars, pubs, bingo halls, bowling
alleys, billiard halls, taxis and limousines, as
well as more traditional workplaces. In addition,
Council approved an amendment put forward by
Councillor Meilleur and Councillor Doucet for City
staff to prepare a report which will address the
concerns of charitable and non-profit
organizations. An
elated Carolyn Hill, President of the
Ottawa-Carleton Council on Smoking and Health,
said, "City Council's decision is the culmination
of 30 years of progressive public education and
legislation." Ms. Hill expressed her appreciation
to the many community groups and individuals who
made their voices heard throughout the campaign to
have the by-laws passed. She also encouraged
everyone who has been supportive to show their
patronage to those establishments that comply with
the public places by-law when it goes into
effect. City
staff will now prepare for an extensive public
awareness and business information campaign and are
committed to working with the business community to
ensure a smooth transition. |
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