Head of Restaurant Syndicate Resigns over Smoking Ban, Announces Rally for Tuesday
The head of the restaurants syndicate in Lebanon, Paul Ariss, resigned on Friday in protest against the smoking ban that has been imposed in Lebanon, reported Voice of Lebanon radio (93.3).
He made his announcement during a during a press conference, adding that a rally for the restaurant sector employees will be held on Tuesday to protest the ban.
“The rally will be held to demonstrate the damage being incurred against the most important sector in Lebanon's economy,” he explained.
“Please allow restaurant goers and smokers to enjoy their days out within properly-studied laws,” Ariss demanded.
The protest will kick off from Sodeco in Beirut at 10:00 a.m. on October 23.
Restaurant owners had previously protested the ban, saying it will affect the country’s tourism sector.
The ban came into effect in September in accordance to Law 174, which passed a year ago.
Prime Minister Najib Miqati had stated in September that the government had highlighted the importance of the ban, adding that it also recognizes the effects it will have on the tourism sector.
“The relief brought to the citizens and civil authorities cannot be ignored however,” noted Miqati.
The National Tobacco Control Program of the Health Ministry says more than 3,500 Lebanese die each year from tobacco-related diseases.
| Copyright © 2012 Naharnet.com. All Rights Reserved. | https://naharnet.com/stories/en/57700 |