Albania : Anti-smoking Law Fails

A smoking ban that was supposed to have gone into force in Albania four months ago has not been implemented, according to a report from the organization for a “Smoke-Free Albania”.  LISTEN

Source: Balkan Investigative Reporting Network

The latest monitoring report, published on Monday, says smoking continues to be tolerated in public spaces, such as bars and buses, although signs make it clear that it is not allowed.  

“The law has totally failed because the responsible structures in the Albanian government have not been mobilised to ensure its application in practice,” said Xhovani Shyti, a representative of Smoke-Free Albania.

According to him, although Albania’s anti-smoking law is excellent, its implementation has remained problematic.  

“Though a few fines have been imposed on bars, they have not been collected, and also there are other businesses that have tolerated smoking,” said Shyti.

  The legislation allows for fines of up to 50,000 Leks (€410) to be imposed on an individual or business that contravenes the smoking ban which applies to all enclosed public spaces.  

Shyti called on the Ministry of Health to remedy the situation by requiring the General Inspectorate of Health to take immediate action.

Albania has 872,000 smokers out of a population of 3 million.  

Health experts are particularly troubled by the fact that some 15 per cent of children, aged 13-15, reportedly smoke.

Albanians spent more than €300 million on tobacco products in 2006.   

Comments

[eduard]

I recommend this app to tune in to all Albanian radio stations download now and enjoy:
Radio Albania

[eduard]

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.radioshqip.radioalbania