Controversy over new smoking regulations

Abstract

The enactment of the Smoking in Public Places Regulations in 2004 has become a highly contentious issue between the government and associations representing various sections of the business community. The Malta Chamber of Small and Medium Enterprises (GRTU) claims that the regulations - which ban smoking in many workplaces - will have particularly adverse effects on entertainment venues, while the social partners generally have accused the government of a lack of consultation. An intensive anti-smoking campaign has been going on in Malta for the past decade. People are being made aware of the dangers of smoking from an early age through the use of media adverts and educational programmes. The Health Promotion Department has set up free smoking-cessation clinics, personal counselling, self-help literature (also available online) and even a 'quit line'. Nevertheless, these activities have not been sufficiently successful, as the incidence of smoking-related illnesses resulting in death is still relatively high. About one in every four Maltese adults smokes. The number of young smokers, especially women, is particularly high.