Three Southern hospitals to ban smoking on their grounds in new year

The HSE confirmed yesterday that Bantry General Hospital, Mallow General, and Kerry General will be declared smoke-free zones on Jan 6, with smoking prohibited on the general hospital grounds. The policy will apply to all staff, patients, visitors, and contractors. A survey conducted at Bantry General revealed that 85% of patients and 71% of staff (including smokers) supported the plans. Dr Brian Carey, a consultant geriatrician at Bantry General, said that the policy would provide an environment that promotes health and supports those who want to stop smoking. (Examiner) >