Last Updated on August 28, 2024, 7:37 AM AST by Anthony Morris
Basseterre, St Kitts: The Royal Saint Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) is all set to step up with the enforcement of the restriction on smoking in public places.
It is to be noted that under Section Three (3) of the Smoking Act, 2023, smoking outside some of the designated smoke areas is prohibited. As defined in the Act, smoking is the use of any lighted or heated device or pipe or cannabis intended for inhalation, including electronic smoking devices, etc.
Considerably, the law defines “public place” widely and includes any place or building that is accessible by the public, such as the bar, drinking places, restaurants and clubs, tourist establishments, hotels, schools, and all other educational institutions.
The RSCNPF has emphasised this law is enforced to protect general public health, particularly the health of residents suffering from asthma and persons allergic to smoke.
This law makes it mandatory for any person found smoking in any public place shall receive a dine of $500, and in default of payment shall be liable to perform any community service for up to twenty hours. If failed to do either, the person shall be sentenced to imprisonment for five days.
Significantly, the Business Operators who wish to have their establishments or parts of it licenced as designated smoking areas are urged to apply to the Chief Medical Officer and comply with the legislated signage requirements.
The law also states that business owners who allow smoking in their establishments without the requisite licensing will be fined with a $1000 ticket.
The RSCNPF also asked the public to remain cautious and worked to enhance the safety and security across St Kitts and Nevis.
Notably, the Royal Saint Christopher and Nevis Police Force remains committed to safeguarding the people of the nation and ensuring that all laws are upheld for the protection of its citizens.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
