LETTER: Is Antigua and Barbuda’s public-smoking ban being enforced?

Dear Editor,

Antigua and Barbuda has had legislation restricting smoking in public places since the passage of the Tobacco Control Act in 2018. Yet, after witnessing the widespread smoking during Saturday’s opening of Carnival, one must ask a straightforward question: Is the law actually being enforced?

The legislation prohibits smoking in enclosed public places, workplaces and public transportation. It also extends the prohibition to several outdoor locations, including parks, playgrounds and sporting and entertainment venues.

Carnival is a major public celebration attended by thousands of people, including children, older residents and people with respiratory illnesses. They should not have to move through clouds of cigarette smoke while participating in an event promoted and organised for the public.

Saturday’s opening festivities provided a clear opportunity for the authorities to demonstrate that the law applies during Carnival just as it does at any other time. Instead, people could be seen smoking openly in crowded areas, with no apparent intervention from those responsible for enforcement.

Were any warnings issued? Were any offenders reported or charged? Were “No Smoking” signs erected in the designated Carnival areas? Were vendors, band leaders and event organisers reminded of their responsibilities under the law?

These are reasonable questions, particularly as the authorities have recently renewed warnings that people found smoking in prohibited public places could be arrested and brought before the court.

A law that exists only on paper offers no protection. If smoking is prohibited at public entertainment venues, the restriction cannot be quietly suspended whenever Carnival begins. Public health legislation should not be enforced selectively or only when it is convenient.

The Ministry of Health, police and Carnival organisers should clearly identify the areas where smoking is prohibited and explain what enforcement measures will be taken throughout the remaining Carnival activities.

Carnival can remain vibrant and enjoyable without forcing non-smokers and children to inhale second-hand smoke. The law has already been passed. What the public now needs to see is whether the authorities are serious about enforcing it.

Concerned Citizen

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