The former Minister for Health Mr Micheál Martin has been given an award by an international cancer prevention body for the introduction of the smoking ban in public places last March.
Mr Martin won the International Union Against Cancer (UICC) Award for Excellence in Global Cancer Control at the 4th World Conference for Cancer Organizations, which is taking place in Dublin this week.
Mr Martin took the award in the 'outstanding government official' category for the controversial legislation, described by the UICC as "ground-breaking".
The award was conferred upon Mr Martin by UICC executive director Ms Isabel Mortara in Dublin before the opening of preparatory sessions for the conference on Sunday.
Ms Mortara praised Mr Martin's "visionary leadership" and determination in implementing the ban.
"Not only have you helped assure a healthier future for your own people, you have unleashed an international fervour to achieve similar milestones in other countries in Europe and around the world," she said.
Legislation is now being drafted in Scotland with a view to a similar ban in enclosed public places. It is expected to cover pubs, restaurants and private clubs, as well as offices and workplaces.
The 4 thWorld Conference for Cancer Organisations is hosted by the Irish Cancer Society and the UICC at the Burlington Hotel in Dublin from tomorrow until Friday.