Ontario to ban smoking on patios, playgrounds, sports fields

It will soon be illegal to smoke on patios, playgrounds and public sports fields in Ontario.

The provincial government said Friday it is enacting regulatory changes to make good on previously announced tobacco control measures. The changes take effect on Jan. 1.

The government will also ban cigarette sales on university and college campuses.

The Ontario Restaurant, Hotel and Motel Association warned that banning smoking on all bar and restaurant patios will deal a significant blow to many businesses.

This industry needs some support. This industry has been struggling now for many years. The last recession was not very kind to this industry, said Tony Elenis, president and CEO. This should have been kept only in public spaces, which we believe in, but not into the restaurant patios.

Mr. Elenis also argued that customers who wish to smoke will be forced to light up in nearby parking lots and on sidewalks, which could risk the health of passing children.

For its part, the Canadian Cancer Society applauded the measures, calling them courageous.

We think this is a great step towards protecting the health of Ontarians, said Rowena Pinto, vice-president of public affairs and strategic initiatives at the organizations Ontario division.

The provincial government first announced the measures a year ago, but its bill died because of the recent election. Instead of reintroducing proposed legislation, the province decided to enact some of the changes through regulation, said spokesman David Jensen.

However, the new regulations do not include a ban on all sales of candy- and fruit-flavoured tobacco products, which was part of last years announcement. Such a move would require new legislation. Mr. Jensen said the province intends to propose further changes in the coming months.

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Ontario to ban smoking on patios, playgrounds, sports fields