Irish pubs called time on a centuries-old habit last night, as the fiercely-debated ban on smoking in the workplace finally came into effect, writes Frank McNally
From midnight, the Republic's hotels, bars and restaurants became smoke-free zones in the eyes of the law. And as premises cleared, the decommissioning of ashtrays was getting under way.
While publicans in particular held their breath to see what effect the new law will have, the Taoiseach declared it enjoyed "the overwhelming support of the majority of people, smokers and non-smokers alike".
The Minister for Health too expressed happiness with a measure that has faced fierce opposition from Cabinet colleagues, the Fianna Fáil parliamentary party, and the powerful vintners lobby.
Mr Martin said he expected more than 90 per cent compliance.
In a last-gasp appeal, vintners in Louth yesterday said they would work the "ridiculous law", but appealed to Mr Martin to allow exemptions if particular businesses were badly hit. Despite warnings of an exodus of customers over the Border, however, the Minister ruled out any such exemptions.
Pubs are clearing the decks for the new measure in more ways than one. At the Sportsman's Bar in north Louth over the weekend, workmen added a perspex roof to an outdoor smoking deck, while a coffee shop on Galway's seafront boasts what its owner believes is the west's largest outdoor café, a covered area for up to 70 people.
Others plan less dramatic changes. At his pub in Kilgarvan, Co Kerry, Mr Danny Healy Rae - son of TD Jackie - said he would not be removing ashtrays.