Irish MP dismissed for smoking

John Deasy dismissed from his post for smoking in Parliament bar

John Deasy, the Fine Gael Member of the Irish Parliament, was dismissed from his post yesterday for smoking in the members Bar.

John Deasy claims he had tried to obtain access to an area outside the enclosed space, but had not been allowed to go there. Therefore, he decided to smoke his cigarette in the bar. Later, the Fine Gael leader, Enda Kenney, dismissed him from his post as justice spokesperson for failing to appear at a meeting to discuss the matter.

Technically, the Fine Gael Justice spokesperson was breaking the law in the same building - Leinster House - where the law was passed on Monday banning smoking in enclosed public spaces.

To smoke or not to smoke?

While the draconian laws banning smoking from all enclosed public spaces are ridiculed by those who claim that personal freedom is being attacked, the personal freedom of non-smokers, to enjoy a meal or a coffee or a chat with friends, is also attacked by those who impose their habit on others.

Given that there is a direct link between passive smoking and smoking-related illnesses, it could be claimed that by purposefully emitting harmful substances into an area where people will come into contact with them, a criminal act is taking place.

John ASHTEAD
LONDON   UNITED KINGDOM