Another Irish University Is Introducing A Smoking Ban
The no smoking ban in workplaces came into effect in Ireland in 2004. Although a welcome change by many, smokers were left outside in the cold when it came to their nicotine habit. Now, outdoors spaces are beginning to be regulated as the University of Limerick introduces no smoking zones, a growing trend amongst Irish campuses.
The plans for the no smoking zones initiative were introduced by the President of the University Dr Des Fitzgerald during graduation week. The President revealed the no smoking move was "close to my heart" and that the initiative would welcome "a healthy environment in which to develop the minds and bodies of our students".
According to the Limerick Leader, UL student union had "little control" as the initiative will implement both smoke-free and vape-free zones. According to a statement by the SU, students will welcome and be disgruntled by the change:
While the plan was discussed with the SU over the summer, ultimately we had little control over the rollout of the initiative...We are aware that the policy change is welcomed by many and unwanted by some. The intention is for UL to be a healthier campus for students and staff.
The Irish Vape Vendors Association are concerned with vaping being considered on par with smoking cigarettes:
...One of the biggest obstacles to this delivery is the continued conflation of smoking and vaping; treating both product categories the same, despite vaping being far safer than tobacco smoking and a proven pathway to smokers becoming smoke free.
IVV are questioning whether the ban on vaping could discourage students from quitting as they will not have the option of vaping:
If a smoker chooses to vape instead they should be supported in doing so. Banning an adult smoker or vaper form using their vaping device sends the message that the two categories of product pose the same risks. This is not the case.
The smoke-free policy of UL includes electronic cigarettes which follow a number of smoke-free campuses around Ireland including Athlone Institute and Westport College. Universities in the capital, such as University College Dublin and Trinity College Dublin, have begun introducing smoke-free areas with mounting pressure on campuses such as Dublin College University growing.