Originally, the smoking ban was to have been introduced on 5 April. However, the government postponed its introduction by six months for establishments larger than 60 square metres. In the case of smaller establishments, the ban comes into force on 5 April 2005.

In recent months there has been an ongoing battle between the government and the Chamber of Small and Medium Enterprises (GRTU) who have adopted an all-out stance against a smoking ban in leisure and entertainment establishments.

GRTU director general Vince Farrugia has, on several occasions, accused the government of breaking promises and trying to hide other problems by introducing the ban. GRTU Hospitality and Leisure Section president Philip Fenech constantly mentions Ireland as an example of how the smoking ban will have a drastic effect on the industry. He claimed that sales have fallen in Irish bars and pubs and as a result, distributors and producers were also suffering.

On the other hand, many non-smokers are delighted that the

government has finally introduced this measure to protect their health. This ban, they say, should encourage smokers to kick the habit.