An overwhelming majority of people who attend sporting arenas for matches and concerts are in favour of a ban on smoking in stadiums, according to a new study commissioned by the Office of Tobacco Control.
The research comes ahead of a voluntary smoke ban at the Armagh v Tyrone clash which is due to be played in Clones on Sunday. The first 'smoke free' game is supported by the Ulster GAA, the Office of Tobacco Control and the Ulster Cancer Foundation.
Overall, 83 per cent of those attending a stadium event in the past year said they would prefer not to have to contend with smoking in stadiums.
The research also found that 72 per cent of smokers support smoke-free stadiums.
The research was published as the Ulster GAA, the Ulster Cancer Foundation and the Office of Tobacco Control announced they are to work in partnership this summer to encourage supporters at all Ulster Championship matches not to smoke to protect others from second-hand smoke.
"By supporting this initiative inside the ground, people are choosing to protect their health and the health of those around them. In particular, a lot of children attend matches and it is especially important to protect them from exposure to second hand smoke," said Minister for Older People and Health Promotion Áine Brady
