No Smoking

For several years now, there's been no smoking in restaurants and bars in BC. As a non-smoker, I often forget that the law even exists. When I was in The Calgary a couple years ago, I had a bite in an airport restaurant. I initially sat in the bar side, but it smelled so bad I ended up moving into the dining room side - and there wasn't even anyone smoking in the room, it was just the room itself!

The BC government recently announced a new smoking ban which will increase restrictions on where people can smoke - including some outdoor spaces. While some people say this is an infringement on the rights of smokers, I have to disagree. Part of the role of the government is to serve the interests of those who elect them - if the majority of people don't smoke and prefer not be around smoking, then the government should act accordingly.

Just recently, I was at a bus stop and it was pouring rain so I was standing inside the shelter with about three other people. Within ten minutes, two people other people came by and lit up inside the same shelter as the rest of us. Frankly, I think it's just rude - it's pouring out, there's an elderly women sitting on the bench, and we're in a mostly enclosed space. There were similar stories on the news of mother's with children standing outside bus shelters because there was someone smoking inside it. People do the same inside Skytrain stations - yes, it IS open air - but really, at least go stand away from everyone else.

I don't have anything against those who choose to smoke, I'd just appreciate a little courtesy!