The Estonian government has approved and submitted to parliament a bill banning smoking in public places. As reported by IA Rosbalt, the introduction of the ban is explained by concern for public health.
The bill provides for the introduction from May 1, 2005 of a ban on smoking in restaurants, bars and other catering establishments, as well as stairwells of residential buildings, toilets, public transport stops, on the premises of preschool institutions, schools, etc. In catering establishments, smoking will be allowed only in specially designated and equipped rooms, but serving customers in these rooms will be prohibited. Such rooms cannot be opened in schools.