Back up new curbs on smoking at eateries with checks, enforcement

I welcome the National Environment Agency’s (NEA’s) announcement on smoking corners at food and beverage establishments islandwide (Eateries can no longer apply for outdoor smoking areas: NEA; June 30, online).

The NEA’s planning and efforts will serve to safeguard the health of non-smokers. On numerous occasions at coffee shops, hawker centres and other eateries, my friends and I have silently endured cigarette smoke wafting in our direction.

This situation never fails to mar our dining experience and the joy of consuming delectable food. It is, however, impractical for us to admonish the culprits sitting nearby, as this could escalate into a confrontation.

I have observed over the years that despite the ubiquitous No Smoking signs on the premises of eateries, recalcitrant smokers have no qualms about risking being caught in order to indulge in their habit.

They often smoke in a tactical, discreet manner while looking out furtively for NEA enforcement teams throughout the process.

I hope to see a more salubrious eating environment in which everyone can enjoy his or her meals without the distraction of cigarette smoke.

Notwithstanding the new NEA policy, we can ill afford to rest on our laurels.

To achieve the desired effect, this measure must be accompanied by inspections and enforcement action by NEA officers from time to time at various eateries round the island.