Dear Editor,
With reference to the article ‘Health Ministry looks at legislation to ban smoking in public places’ published in the July 6 issue of Kaieteur News, I would like to state that my position is in support of the full banning of smoking in public places. As such, I encourage other citizens to publicly voice their support. Also, I would like to commend Dr Ramsammy for his awareness of the detriments of public smoking, and willingness to direct his efforts to another positive endeavour for the nation’s health.
The article stated that Dr Ramsammy explained “…if Guyanese start to voice their opinions on whether or not the Government should ban smoking in public places, his ministry will move in the direction of having the relevant laws in place to address the issue.” What is quite intriguing is the fact that, on a matter of national health, public debate and support is sought after. Smoking is detrimental to the individual indulging in the act and, if present, those nearby. The harmful effects of smoking become multiplied when it is done in public, and the number of persons likely to be affected are increased.
Laws that will result in a healthier society should not have to be debated amongst citizens before the government takes aggressive action towards the realization of such laws. If the majority of the population were against the banning of smoking, which is certainly not the case, it would not change the fact that public smoking is detrimental to the nation’s heath.
The Ministry of Health should aggressively pursue the full banning of public smoking without having to worry about public support or lack thereof. Any such banning will only serve to contribute to the development of our beloved nation – with or without public approval.
Yours faithfully,
Ganesh Gupta
