Media release: 15 October, 2003
A
NSW working party on smokefree pubs and clubs must make 2005 its absolute
deadline for ending smoky workplaces, says the SmokeFree ’03 coalition.
And
the working party, announced by Science Minister Frank Sartor, should include
fair representation of employee and health interests relevant to the issue.
“This
will be the third working party in the last decade on this issue,” says Tim
Ferrari, Assistant Secretary of the LHMU hospitality union and spokesperson for
SmokeFree ’03.
“Its purpose should be to ensure the end of enclosed smoky workplaces by the
end of 2005, as resolved this month by the ALP state conference.
“To
perform that function,” he says, “the working party will need fair
representation from relevant trade unions - including the LHMU, MEAA and
Musicians’ Union – as well as expert opinion from health groups concerned
with the public health impact of second-hand smoke not just on cancer but also
on heart, respiratory and other conditions.
“Pub
and club workers have been more than patient about the long delays in ending
exemptions to smokefree workplace laws – exemptions which already have left
our members unprotected against toxic and harmful tobacco smoke for far too
long.
“The
independent evidence is clear: smoky venues cause serious harm to workers and
the public; ventilation and separate areas do not effectively protect people
against these dangers; and a clear majority of the general community and of pub
and club patrons favour total bans.
“In
the light of all this, we would not be a party to any further delays, nor to a
working group stacked in favour of the procrastinators. We’re awaiting further
advice from the government as to how this working party can ensure
implementation of ALP policy and the full application of occupational health and
safety laws.”
Comment:
Tim Ferrari, LHMU ph.
0425-242-727
Media info/comment:
Stafford Sanders, ASH ph. (02) 9334-1823
SmokeFree '03 coalition:
Liquor,
Hospitality and Miscellaneous Workers’ Union; Musicians’ Union of Australia; Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance; Australian Council of
Trade Unions; Action on Smoking and Health Australia; The Cancer Council
Australia; National Heart Foundation of Australia; Australian Council on Smoking
and Health; Non-Smokers’ Movement of Australia; Australian Medical
Association.