Proposals to make Powys County Council a smoke-free workplace have been sent back to the drawing board after being branded “unworkable”.The policy, outlined to board members yesterday, said smoking would not be permitted in premises or vehicles owned, occupied or managed by the council, around entrances, or where smoking might be viewed by the public.
No facilities would be provided for smokers on any council premises, inside or outside, including doorways, and smoking would be limited to specific areas away from general view.
Workers who wish to smoke would be allowed to do so only in their own time, during official breaks and when they have clocked out, provided they are not on council premises or in council vehicles.
Councillor Wynne Jones said the proposals went too far. “It’s unworkable,” he said.
Councillor Bob Davey said: “The law was supposed to be a ban on smoking in enclosed spaces, and we’ve already seen what has happened in pubs and clubs; people aren’t going there anymore.”
Councillor James Gibson-Watt said: “The idea we have to go behind a hedge to have a cigarette is absurd.
“It wasn’t the intention but as it’s written, it could be seen that way.
“It’s also a bit hypocritical as we all drive our cars all over the place, pumping noxious fumes into the air.”
Councillor Graham Brown said: “The policy doesn’t define what public view is. It goes far beyond what is required.”
Members agreed the policy should be redrafted. A revised scheme is due before councillors later in the year.
One Comment
It’s the law. Sort it.