Nunavik goes nearly smoke-free

Stiff new anti-smoking laws came into effect last week in Quebec and will also apply in Nunavik.

Kuujjuaq’s bars and restaurants have been smoke-free since the beginning of 2006, in preparation for the new law.

Under the new regulations, there can be no smoking in restaurants, bars or halls, hospitals, clinics, in the workplace, schools, work vehicles or hotel common rooms.

Smokers must be at least nine metres away from any hospital, clinic, social service outlet, school or workplace entranceway.

Smoking will still be permitted in 40 per cent of hotel rooms and in long-term care hospitals.

For restaurants and bars, fines range from $400 for the first infraction up to $10,000 for repeat offenders. For individuals, fines range from $87 for the first offence to $600 for the second.

A toll-free number, 1-877-416-8222, is in place for anyone wishing to file a complaint that the new law isn’t being respected.