Watchdog looks into smoking complaints (From Western Telegraph)

8:17am Saturday 21st April 2007

COUNTY smoking enforcement staff are investigating two complaints that people have been sparking up in public premises despite the smoking ban.

But, Pembrokeshire County Council said, smokers in Pembrokeshire have generally been observing the new legislation.

"We're pleased with the public's very positive response to the ban," said Mike Drew, the council's smoke-free co-ordinator.

"Our first impressions are that local people and businesses are, for the most part, aware of the regulations and complying with them.

"The current period of fine weather is helping efforts to secure compliance by allowing smokers to leave the building to smoke in reasonable comfort.

"It is recognised that efforts may need to be stepped up further later in the year, especially during periods of inclement weather."

The two complaints were reported via the smoke-free compliance helpline, set up to report breaches of the law.

Mr Drew said the council would now be carrying out a substantial number of unannounced visits to monitor the ban.

"We visited hundreds of premises before the ban came into force, and we are keen to keep up the momentum," he added.

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