The Government has adopted the draft law on protection from the use of tobacco products and related products, which opens the way for its consideration and adoption in the Parliament.
The Ministry of Health informs that it is a significant step towards improving public health and creating a healthier and safer public space. The law was prepared after extensive consultations with representatives of the tobacco industry, the hospitality sector, institutions, inspection services, the expert public and with the support of the World Health Organization.
The prime minister Christian Mickoski stated that he expects the legal solution to be adopted in the Parliament as soon as possible. According to him, most of the provisions will enter into force immediately after the passing of the law, while catering establishments will receive a transition period of 12 months to harmonize and adapt their premises.
Mickoski pointed out that the text represents a compromise solution developed through an inclusive process, in which all stakeholders were involved – producers, distributors, caterers, hoteliers and representatives of the business community.
The representatives of the catering sector expressed their satisfaction with the partnership approach in the preparation of the law and welcomed the decision for a one-year period to adjust the terraces and other parts of the facilities.
The new legal solution foresees precise criteria for arranging the spaces where smoking will be allowed, which closes the previous ambiguities and possibilities for different interpretations. At the same time, reinforced inspection controls and strict sanctions for non-compliance with the rules are announced.
The Prime Minister and the Minister of Health Azir Aliu they said that they expect consistent application of the law and emphasized that there will be no exceptions or privileged subjects during its implementation.
