A Clare GP insists that people should not be allowed to smoke in outdoor dining areas.
Many smoking areas in pubs and restaurants are being used as dining areas, which has led to a debate over whether smoking should be banned in these settings.
In the UK, five councils have banned the habit outside of pubs and at outdoor dining tables.
Ennis GP, Dr Maire Finn says secondhand smoke is almost as dangerous as smoking itself and the fact that everyone can only congregate in these areas, means the health of non-smokers is being put at risk.
However the Chair of Clare VFI believes that any suggestion of banning smoking in outdoor areas is unfair at this point.
Charlie O’Meara says businesses that have been closed for 15 months need a chance to get back on their feet.
