The Institute of Public Health was established in 1999 to promote co-operation for Public Health on the island of Ireland. It aims to improve health across the island of Ireland by working to combat health inequalities and influence public policies in favour of health. 

The remit includes; 

- providing public health information and surveillance; 

- strengthening public health capacity; and 

- advising on policy. 

Introduction The Institute of Public Health welcomes the consultation on the Smokefree Elements of the Health Improvement and Protection Bill. The Institute strongly supports a total ban on smoking in all enclosed workplaces and public places. A total ban on smoking in all enclosed public places and workplaces is the only way to adequately protect the health of all workers and contribute to reducing the prevalence of smoking within the population. 

The exemptions within the proposed Health Improvement and Protection Bill will fail to protect many workers particularly in the hospitality industry. These workers are often at greatest risk from Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) due to the extent of their exposure.