If the tobacco industry was not as powerful as it is, and if the revenue it brought in, in the form of taxation was not as large as it is, I have no doubt that the sale of this lethal drug would have been banned long ago.
A smoking ban in public places is the teetering first step in taking control of something that has long been out-of-hand.
Its positive effects are reflected in health report figures - slowly, but surely....
There are now discussions on banning smoking in cars and in the presence of children - this latter is long, long overdue and perhaps should have been the first move.
Remembering the oppressive atmosphere in pubs and on public transport was like in my younger days in Liverpool and in Ireland, I was convinced that the ban wouldn't last five minutes - now, some of the loudest advocates of it are the hardened smokers.
My parents were both heavy smokers , so I understand the urge people have to smoke and the undeniable addictive nature of nicotine.
What I don't understand is why a vocal handful of those who are unfortunate enough to be hooked, feel it necessary to inflict their addiction on others.
Wonder if they could explain, rather than hiding behind Their "worse examples of pollution" - I'm sure a more rationally put case would attract more understanding and sympathy .
Jim Carroll