Ban of smoking in Public Places

Compensation Board (WCB) found an increase in the number of persons hired by the hospitality industry after by-law implementation as captured by increased premiums paid to the WCB by this sector. There was also a decrease in the number of food establishment closures from 271 in 1998 to 189 in 1999, based on the number of Capital Health Region food establishment operating permits issued. Nine months after the City of Ottawa went smoke-free, 82 new bars and restaurants had opened. A Decima Research Poll conducted in July 2002 found that public support grew for the City's smoking by-law after one year and there was no net reduction in city-wide visits to bars and restaurants.…