403. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health the reason staff, patients and their families are being treated in a manner in a hospital (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43157/14]

Minister for Health (Deputy Leo Varadkar): The specific issues raised by the deputy are a matter for the HSE. I have asked the HSE to respond to the Deputy directly on this matter. If you have not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days please contact my Private Office and they will follow up the matter with them.

At present under the Public Health (Tobacco) Acts smoking is prohibited within indoor workplaces and in vehicles that are considered a workplace e.g. a bus or a taxi. The introduction of smoke free campuses is a matter for the HSE.

One of the principles outlined in Tobacco Free Ireland, is the denormalisation of tobacco use. Making smoking less attractive to children and young people, and increasing its social unacceptability are essential elements of this policy. The development of further smoke-free areas as recommended in Tobacco Free Ireland, including tobacco free playgrounds, education campuses, child care and health care facilities, will play a part in this regard. The Department of Health is in the process of preparing legislation which will prohibit smoking in cars where children are present.