France begins policing smoking ban in cafes
AFP, January, 2008
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PARIS (AFP) — French smokers on Wednesday risked hefty fines for lighting up in cafes and restaurants as authorities began enforcing a smoking ban that went into effect on January 1.
After granting a one-day reprieve to smokers after the New Year festivities, Health Minister Roselyne Bachelot said some 200,000 public health inspectors, police and other state authorities would be on patrol to ensure the venues are smoke-free.
As of Wednesday, smokers who light up in cafes face fines of between 68 euros (100 dollars) to 450 euros while business owners can incur penalties of up to 750 euros for violations.
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Bachelot was due later Wednesday to visit a Paris "brasserie" where ashtrays were stowed away early Tuesday as in most other restaurants where owners opted not to set up the costly enclosed smoking areas that are allowed under the law.
Cafes, restaurants, nightclubs and casinos joined ...
