Greek gov’t launches ban on public smoking

Agence France-Presse

refid:11984273 ilişkili resim dosyası

As a 2008 law banning smoking in public places officially came into effect, Health Minister Dimitris Avramopoulos proudly spoke of a new era. "The curtain has risen on a new era, as of today establishments are smoke-free and nobody will smoke anywhere," he told state television NET. "In the end, we will join the ranks of civilized nations," he said.

Under the new legislation smoking will - again - be banned in hospitals, schools, in public vehicles and in all public spaces. But after two prior efforts this decade, and anti-smoking laws dating to the mid-19th century, many Greeks do not share Avramopoulos' optimism.

The first day of the law saw a mixed reception with some premises only serving smokers outdoors but others carrying on as usual. "We have applied for a smoking permit but it will take time, so for now we do not allow smoking indoors," said Effie, a central Athens cafe waitress.

Some are already trying to find ways to bend the rules. "Before the ban we were smoking in the corridors and nobody complained, so I guess we'll do the same," said an employee at state broadcaster ERT. Critics note that ambiguity and loopholes in the new law threaten to render it little more than a smoke screen.