Ontario bar owners say smoking bans will destroy business - The majority willing to fight Queen's Park to save jobs

TORONTO, Nov. 19 /CNW/ - Independent market research conducted by the Fair Air Association of Canada (FAAC) clearly indicates an overwhelming number of Ontario's bar and pub owners believe a smoking ban will hurt their business and they're ready to become politically active to fight new legislation that will hurt their business.

Enhanced Marketing Services (EMS) conducted the research by way of a telephone survey to 4,937 licensed establishments outside of Toronto between July 21st and September 21st. Research shows 76% of bars and pubs owners believe proposed smoking bans will have a negative impact on their business. 46% say they will have to lay off staff if smoking bans are enacted. 81% said they'll become politically active over the issue and 77% said they will organize their patrons and employees to do the same.

"Bar owners know their business and their customers. The vast majority say smoking bans will hurt their business. Bar and pub owners are already struggling to meet their financial obligations after the estimated $429 million loss the hospitality industry is faced with from the SARS crisis. Add the economic fallout from West Nile, Mad Cow and the 'Blackout' and our businesses face being out of business," warned Karen Bodirsky, FAAC spokesperson.

"In British Columbia, a province-wide ban lasted only 80 days before it was over-turned. The courts ruled the BC government did not adequately consult with the hospitality industry in their rush to ban smoking. Since then, BC has adopted a province-wide ventilation standard for establishments that allow smoking; it is a solution that works and addresses the needs of workers, patrons and bar and pub owners. We urge the Ontario Liberals to pursue a similar path."

The Fair Air Association of Canada promotes ventilation options and technologies on behalf of members of the Canadian hospitality industry.


For further information: Media Contact: FAAC, Karen Bodirsky, (416) 214-2737