France prohibits smoking in most public regions, as more stringent laws to combat smoking are enacted with expensive fines

The iconic image of a Parisian has become a smoking of the past, as France banned smoking in most public regions.

The new France Law shows that tobacco should disappear as there are children, and parents, as well as the majority of the country, agree. Those who choose smoking in public places in areas such as beach or garden may face a fine. The ban also applies to bus shelters, areas near libraries, swimming pools and schools.

Violations may face a fine of 135 euros ($ 160) with a maximum of 700 euros ($ 826), according to AFP. However, the Ministry of Health expects a preliminary grace period, as the new rules enter into force this week.

For decades, cigarette lighting was less than that of Vibi-part of Mise-E-SCène Cultural. Health Minister Catherine Futrin said in a statement on Saturday that more than 200 people in France die every day of tobacco. This adds up to 75,000 people who die of smoking every year, and the French government wanted the separation to fade to the lions.

“We do not prohibit smoking; We prohibit smoking in certain places that can affect people’s health and … young people. “

It has been legal in restaurants, bars and public buildings since a series of ban in 2007 and 2008. The higher taxes that mean that the package is now more than 12 euros ($ 14).

However, more than 30 % of French adults still smoke cigarettes, most of them daily, one of them High rates in Europe and the world. The Ministry of Health is particularly concerned that tobacco is still popular among young people, noting public health statistics that show that 15 % of 17 -year -old children smoke. Trading cigarettes on the black market is common.

There is still a last shelter for smokers – in the cafe terransis on many sidewalks.

Catherine Kerard, head of the National restaurant lounge in France, told CBS that the stands are a “space of freedom”.

“The stands are relations and social communication and it is very important to us,” said Kerard. It is also the column of the identity of France and its economy. QUERARD says that a third of Café Terrasse sales occur abroad.

Some smokers say they are getting the new ban, but others believe their right is restricted.

“I am a smoker. I am smoking because I am tense, not because it is my pleasure,” one of the smokers on Paris Street told CBS News. “For us, this is the last defense of smoking. But frankly? It is part of the freedom that we enjoy in France. If it restricts it … other freedom disappears.”

Associated Press

He contributed to this report.