Smoke free policy on the way for all hospital grounds
Health Minister Jim Wells has announced that smoking will not be permitted in the grounds of any HSC Trust facility from March 2016.
The Minister said, “Smoking is the leading cause of preventable illness and premature death in Northern Ireland, killing around 2,300 people each year.
“Today I am pleased to announce that all trusts, with the exception of the Western Trust who have already implemented the smoke free measures, are working towards being completely smoke-free from March next year.
“This will ensure a better quality environment for patients, staff and visitors of any health and social care facility in Northern Ireland.”
Sinn Féin MLA and Assembly Health Committee member Mickey Brady welcomed the news. “The news announced on No Smoking Day is welcome news for people attending medical facilities across the North in that they will no longer be exposed to passive smoking.
He added, “I would appeal to smokers to adhere to the ban and work with the staff to ensure a smoke free environment for patients, staff and visitors alike.”
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