Outdoor cafe in Galway caters for hardy smokers

Mr Declan Garry, managing director of the Arabica coffee house chain, doesn't smoke himself, and had originally intended to run non-smoking establishments.

However, he has adapted to the new situation to the extent that his company may now reap the benefits of anti-smoking legislation.

Garry has developed a 1,200 square foot decked area, looking south on the Burren and the waters of Galway Bay. The deck is larger than the main café in the Galway Business School in Salthill, which caters for many foreign students who are used to lighting up.

It can cope with up to 70 customers - though it is currently limited to about 30 - and it does have an awning, to cope with the Atlantic rain. However, since the café opened several months ago there have been long periods of dry, if cold, weather.

"Not being a smoker, I am not sure what lengths people will go to to have a fag," Mr Garry says. "I do know we get a lot of "prom" (Salthill promenade) walkers who are dressed for all weathers, and are quite happy to sit out there in a chilly wind in February. They may not even be interested in smoking, but it's ideal for those who want to huff and puff away, as there's usually some breeze!" Mr Garry is Dublin-born, but has been in Galway for the past eight years - most of that time spent as general manager of Brown Thomas. He opened the first of three Arabica branches on Merchants Road, Galway, just a year ago. At that stage, he was aiming for a smoke-free establishment.

"I found it just didn't work, we had to abandon our principles and allow for a smokers' area. Merchants Road has several seats outside, so we can still cater for smokers after Monday." His branch in the village of Barna is also equipped with an outdoor courtyard.