It will be interesting to see this week if Dundee City Council vote through measures to make play parks designated smoke free areas, as it has long been a divisive subject.
Here in Fife, the council said it would consider such a move but there appears to be no immediate plans to formalise anything, although it has reaffirmed its support for Scotland’s Charter for a tobacco free generation.
But let’s face it: what good will no smoking signs or a polite “request” for people not to light up do if it’s not enforceable?
Each to their own but, full disclosure, I detest smoking. I grew up around it, have no doubt had some damage done to me through passive smoking, and it has contributed directly to the deaths of some of my nearest and dearest. It’s a waste of money, does people more harm than good and I’m glad to see the younger generation apparently apathetic to the whole practice these days.
Before I have the smoking brigade banging on the door though, I also have to say that I get it. Aside from being addictive, I understand the social side of it and the pleasure some people get from it. Having harped on for years at certain loved ones to kick the habit, I’m repeatedly told that “It’s the only pleasure I’ve got”. Fine. Blacken your lungs at your own convenience.
However, councils and health boards shouldn’t have to spend cash on signs, warnings or even tannoy announcements — as has been mooted for Kirkcaldy’s Victoria Hospital — to stop people smoking where they shouldn’t.
Why should people of any age have the effects of someone’s personal vice inflicted upon them?
Some smokers, not all, need to have a bit of self awareness and police themselves.
We can’t expect councils, health boards, shop workers, and even Police Scotland to enforce ‘bans’, even if draconian fines — again, as is expected for those smoking within a certain distance from health centres and hospitals later this year — come into force.
Perhaps it’s time for those who ignorantly smoke in places where they should know better to stop being so selfish, and take a minute to think about where they are sparking up.
Similarly, maybe more of us should have the courage to call out the behaviour of those who continually disregard the warning signs that are in place for good reason.
