Roadtown, Tortola - The public is reminded to adhere to the provisions of the Tobacco Products Control Act, 2006 which prohibits smoking in enclosed public places including offices and office buildings, restaurants and bars, and public restrooms.

This reminder follows a number of complaints to the Ministry of Health and Social Development about the continuation of smoking at some restaurants, bars, and workplaces in breach of the Act. 

Accordingly, the Ministry is re-emphasizing Section 10 (1) of the Act, which states “a person who fails to comply with or contravenes any provision of this Act commits an offence and is liable to such penalties as shall be prescribed in the Regulations.”

On conviction an offender may be fined $50.00 for smoking tobacco or holding a lighted tobacco in a public place or within 50 feet from the entrance, exit, or open window of offices and office buildings.

The Ministry is reminding the owners and operators of businesses that they could also be fined up to $120.00 for failing to place in a prominent place, the prescribed signs that clearly indicate smoke-free zones. No smoking signs and warnings can be sourced from the ministry at telephone number 494-3701 extension 2168.

The Tobacco Products Control Act, 2006 seeks to reduce tobacco use and its consequent harm by regulating the promotion, distribution, and use of tobacco products in the Virgin Islands (UK). It is also intended to protect non-smokers from exposure to tobacco. According to the Act, an enclosed public place does not need to be a covered area as long as it is sufficiently fenced or housed, and to which the public is admitted.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development aspires to provide leadership that promotes health, social well-being, and a safe environment as positive resources for living and sustainable development of the Virgin Islands (UK)