AN MVK survey carried out for the daily SME found that many smokers support restrictions on smoking. Only 19.9 percent said there should be no restrictions, the daily reported.
Robert Ochaba, an expert on tobacco control, told SME that the survey confirms that smoking is no longer considered normal, trendy, or acceptable.
Respondents also confirmed the growing trend of a ban of smoking in the work place. Only 10.3 percent said that their work place allowed unrestricted smoking.
Health Minister Rudolf Zajac wanted to make the current law on smoking even stricter. The minister wanted restaurants and cafes to be obliged to provide partitioned smoking and non-smoking areas. However, Interior Minister Vladimír Palko watered down the proposals, and took out clauses banning smoking in schools and universities.
Nevertheless, advertising tobacco products is to be made more difficult. Tobacco firms will no longer be allowed to sponsor events in Slovakia, according to a proposal recently approved by the cabinet. However, the amendment still has to be approved by parliament.
Compiled by Marta Ďurianová from press reports
TheSlovak Spectator cannot vouch for the accuracy of the informationpresented in its Flash News postings.
