Greece impose smoking ban

Greece has imposed a nationwide ban on smoking in enclosed public and private workplaces.



Small establishments such as restaurants and cafes will have to observe the restrictions.



Larger ones such as casinos and nightclubs have until June 2011 to fully impose the ban.



The nation has tried to impose the ban before, but failed.



Consequences for violating the ban were not clearly outlined and enforced in the past, leading many smokers to shun the law.



However, the health minister said things are different this time.

Greek citizens who defy the smoking ban will initially receive a warning, with their names entered into a database.



A second infraction will result in a fine of between 50 and 500 Euros.