CYPRUS PROPERTY LAWYERS ANALYZE NO SMOKING BAN
Lawyers in Cyprus – Analyzies – Cyprus no smoking ban – on 2nd january 2010.
CYPRUS PROPERTY LAWYERS ANALYZE NO SMOKING BAN
Although we at A&G Kouzali Legal Firm in Cyprus are in favour of the NO SMOKING BAN, we still have to review all issues to this controversial subject.
Tensions are rising as Cyprus now abides by the no smoking ban, of which has actually already been introduced in Cyprus but has never officially been forced. However, that has now changed as from 1st of January 2010 if anyone is caught smoking in an enclosed public place, they will be fined up to €2,000.
The no smoking ban was planned to commence at midnight on New Years Eve, but later became conscious to authorities that this could quite possibly cause major rebellion for smokers whilst under the influence of alcohol celebrating the new year and therefore came in to affect on news years day.
Cypriots are commonly known for social smoking and it has always been allowed in places of business and pleasure, it has never really been judged as a prejudicial issue, more of a social habit and therefore this is not a concept that Cypriot Nationals are in favour of.
A no smoking ban, although you would not believe, can actually have a negative affect on the economy. For example the no smoking ban in England has physically changed the face of night time activity. Bars and clubs are no longer busy because individuals like to smoke while consuming alcohol. While day time life proceeds as normal night time life is diminishing.
Many of our seaside towns gain major revenue from the island nightlife. Agia Napa for example situated in the Famagusta region of Cyprus consists of many bars and clubs accommodating the younger visitors to the island, this is one of the main revenues in the tourist season. After review, we found many individuals would rather not go out and drink if they can not smoke.
Therefore, what will happen to the business owner who relies on the night time tourist trade and is this really a good time when Cyprus is already trying to revive its economy? We will endeavour to answer these questions in the New Year when this ban comes into effect.
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PUBLISHED BY A&G KOUZALI LAW OFFICE ON 2nd JANUARY 2010.