DUBLIN, Ireland, Feb. 18 (UPI) -- Smoking will be banned in workplaces across the Republic of Ireland beginning on March 29, officials announced Wednesday in Dublin, Ireland.
The ban will make it illegal to smoke in taverns, restaurants and hotels; but prison cells, hotel rooms, nursing homes and psychiatric hospitals are exempted.
Health Minister Michael Martin said the long-awaited move will benefit workers and the general public, Sky News reported Tuesday.
Said Martin: "This is a positive, progressive health and safety measure, which will bestow positive benefits to workers and the general public. The bottom line is you don't have to be a smoker to get cancer from cigarette smoking, you can get it if you were never a smoker. You can get it from other people's smoke."
A nationwide advertising campaign has been launched warning smokers and employers of the new rules.
