HomeBackground
The Smoking (Northern Ireland) Order 2006, which makes it illegal to smoke in most enclosed workplaces and public places, was set up to protect workers and the public from second-hand smoke.Inhaling other people's smoke increases your risk of lung cancer, heart disease and strokes, as well as other health problems.
Between December 2004 and March 2005, a major public consultation about smoking, undertaken by the government, received more than 70,000 responses.
More than 90 per cent of respondents said they would support smoke-free legislation, paving the way for the law's introduction in April 2007.
You can find out more about passive smoking from the NHS Choices website
