LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL PASSES NON-SMOKING LEGISLATION

On 14 November the Legislative Council unanimously passed the Tobacco Control Act banning smoking in public places in the BVI.

 Along with prohibiting smoking in offices, restaurants, bars and other such places, the Tobacco Control Act will regulate the promotion, distribution and use of tobacco products in the Territory.

Minister for Health and Social Development the Hon. Ronnie W. Skelton, who presented the bill for its second and third reading said he was happy that the bill got the needed support to pass through Legislative Council.

“I think my colleagues acknowledged the need to protect the non-smokers in this community and this is good. The concern for public health obviously outweighs any of the other concerns that may be considered when introducing such a ban especially with the Territory’s dependence on tourism, “Minister Skelton said.

The BVI joins as many as 57 countries in embracing the World Health Organisation Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. The convention essentially gives countries more tools to control tobacco use and save lives.

The Bermuda Senate passed a similar bill in February which will make all workplaces in the British Territory, including restaurants and bars, smoke-free beginning April 1. 

Evidence show that the most effective measures to reduce tobacco use is regulatory in nature. Policy measures such as higher tobacco taxes, elimination of tobacco promotion, and the mandatory implementation of smoke-free environments in public places and workplaces have proven effective in reducing youth smoking and helping smokers quit.

Tobacco is becoming one of the single largest causes of deaths worldwide and affects nearly every organ of the body.

The Ministry of Health and Welfare, under which this initiative falls, serves as the focal point for leadership, legislation and policy direction in all operations relating to health and social welfare and promoting the physical, mental and social health of all persons in the Territory.