Smoking ban could be lifted shortly on Alicante and Balearic Islands bar terraces
The anti-Covid smoking ban on the Spanish islands is expected to be abolished very soon
The Balearic Islands and the Valencian Community are the only two regions in all of Spain that still have a ban on smoking on outdoor bar and restaurant terraces, a measure that was introduced across the country at the height of the coronavirus pandemic and quickly abolished in most areas.
Since the WHO has deactivated the Covid emergency, all that is left is for the existing pandemic measures in Spain to expire, such as the use of masks in health centres and pharmacies, something that’s expected to happen any day now. Once this is done, smoking will again be permitted on terraces.
The Balearic public health strategy was to extend the anti-smoking regulation under the umbrella of the pandemic until the state Anti-tobacco law was modified. However, this has yet to see the light of day and with the general elections scheduled for July 23, it’s not likely to be passed anytime soon.
Also of interest: Spain raises the price of certain cigarettes
By not having a national regulation, the Balearic Islands (and presumably the Valencian Community) will not be able to continue relying on the Covid regulations, and will have to allow smoking.
Those opposed to smoking in the Balearics aren’t taking this lying down though, and the Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC) is already making a move.
On the occasion of World Anti-Tobacco Day, the group has signed an initiative with the Association of Restaurateurs in the emblematic Bar Bosch whereby establishments can sign up to declare the terraces on their premises ‘Smoke Free Spaces.’
Taking this stand will denormalise tobacco consumption, according to president of the AECC, Dr José Reyes, who pointed out that the overwhelming majority – 73% of the population – don’t smoke, and so their health must be protected.
Image: Archive
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