Spains Enacts Anti-Smoking Laws

A new smoke-free look across Spain.

On Sunday, the country adopted one of the European Union’s strictest anti-smoking laws.

The new legislation prohibits smoking in bars, restaurants, and many outdoor areas.

Cafe Gijon, Madrid’s 123-year-old popular haunt for artists and writers, has made the transition.

But some patrons raise questions about the possible economic impact.

[Raul, Local Resident]:              
„I guess it is positive, especially for those who serve at the tables. But I think it is a waste of money for bar owners as they have isolated specific areas and I don’t know what kind of measures they are going to get in return.“

However, some see a potential for positive results.

{Cuban Woman]:   
„Well, I think it is convenient that smoking is banned, because I have been left without a voice after breathing in smoke over Christmas. I don’t have anything against pure tobacco, but I am against cigarettes, as what is in them isn’t pure.“

The government says the ban is necessary to tackle the 55,000 smoking-related deaths a year.

Foto: NTDTV