One quarter of Irish smokers will attempt to kick their habit today and with tougher anti-smoking legislation on the way campaigners are saying there has never been a better time to quit.
Today, Ash Wednesday, has been designated National No Smoking Day. A survey by the Irish Cancer Society reveals that 26 per cent of smokers attempt to quit smoking on Ash Wednesday but only 43 per cent will remain off cigarettes for 24 hours. Only 3 per cent were still off the weed by the end of Lent.
The main reasons for returning to smoking were cravings, lack of willpower and crankiness.
Commenting on the survey, Ms Norma Cronin, anti-tobacco consultant at the Irish Cancer Society said "There has never been a better time to quit."
Referring to the proposed legislation which will ban smoking in publoc places from January 1st next year, Ms Cronin said "It is clear we all face a huge cultural challenge with regard to the successful implementation of these regulations so it is a good ideas for smokers to begin preparing now , whatever their age."
The Irish Cancer Society operates a helpline for smokers wanting to quit at 1850-201-203, lines are open Monday to Friday (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
James Connolly Memorial Hospital, Blanchardstown has received a Silver Award for its tobacco control procedures from the European Network for Smokefree Hospitals.
Smoking is now restricted to designated areas and the new hospital buildingwill be smoke free.