There is widespread support for the decision to ban smoking in bars and restaurants a survey shows.
The survey by TNS/MRBI for the Office of Tobacco Control (OTC) shows 67 per cent support for the measure announced by the Minister for Health and Children, Mr Martin late last year.
Today's figures are an increase of eight per cent compared to a survey conducted by the same market research company and published in The Irish Timeslast February.
Support among smokers has also increased with 4 out of 10 smokers favouring the ban.
The research shows support for the measure is evenly spread between men (68 per cent) and women (66 per cent).
The ban is due to take effect from the start of next year but is being met with resistance from licensed trade.