Spain has taken steps to reduce tobacco consumption by extending smoke-free areas.
Spain's minority left-wing government has approved a draft law that would ban smoking and vaping in outdoor spaces, such as bar terraces, parks and beaches.
The draft law also includes a ban of minors consuming tobacco and preventing the advertising of tobacco products.
Health Minister Monica Garcia said via RTE that the aim is to expand restrictions an beyond indoor smoking ban "to better protect public health and move towards a tobacco-free generation".
"The aim is simple: to make clean air the norm in shared spaces," Garcia said.
If the draft law passes, it will be forbidden to smoke or vape on “the terraces of bars, restaurants and other hospitality establishments, sea and river beaches, public swimming pools, sports facilities, national parks, work vehicles, except when used exclusively for personal purposes, as well as venues where public events are held," according to Garcia's statement via Euro News.
A further "protection zone" of 15 metres will be centred around public buildings, libraries, museums, sports facilities, cultural centres, schools, hospitals, universities and children's playgrounds.
“Anyone who wants to have a coffee or enjoy their leisure time freely on a terrace should be able to do so without the smoke from nearby tables becoming part of the menu,” Garcia stated at a press conference earlier this week.
Garcia also said that outdoor dining areas should be safe for pregnant women and people with asthma, without exposure to smoke from nearby tables.
The draft law has still to be approved by parliament where the government lacks a majority.
According to RTE, Spain is the most popular holiday destination for Irish people, with an average of over 2.5 million visits each year.
The draft law is expected to receive significant backlash from the hospitality sector as outdoor dining is extremely popular during the summer months.
