The US-based Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids (CTFK) has praised Guyana for its passage of tobacco control legislation. The entity said Guyana has shown countries of any size can stand up to the tobacco industry and take strong action to save lives and protect public health.
Historic step
“The landmark tobacco control legislation passed by the Parliament of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana is a historic step for the nation. If signed by President David Granger, it will ensure the people of Guyana are protected from the devastating harms of tobacco use,” said Patricia Sosa, CTFK Director of Caribbean and Latin America Programs.
Bill approved by National Assembly
Last month, the National Assembly in Guyana approved the Tobacco Control Bill providing for the adoption and implementation of tobacco-control policies in accordance with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC).
The government said the legislation serves as the legal regulator for administration, inspection and enforcement, while providing legislative protection from exposure to second- hand smoke by eliminating public smoking.
The bill seeks to reduce tobacco use and exposure to tobacco smoke; prevent tobacco use by minors and protect workers and the public from exposure to tobacco smoke.
The bill also clears the way for establishment of a National Tobacco Control Council.
Life saving measures
In her statement, Sosa said the bill provides life-saving measures proven to reduce tobacco use. This include picture-based health warnings on tobacco packs, 100 per cent smoke-free workplaces and public places, and bans on all tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship.
“If signed into law, the bill will drastically impact tobacco use in Guyana, where 1 in 10 male deaths are caused by tobacco use every year. Controlling tobacco consumption is also necessary to reduce the deadly toll of non-communicable diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, and chronic lung disease, of which tobacco consumption is a key risk factor,” Sosa’s statement read.
Sosa also stated, “By signing this legislation into law, President Granger will ensure Guyana joins neighbors in Latin America and the Caribbean that have passed strong laws to reduce the devastating burden of tobacco related death and disease. With this new law, Guyana can show the world that countries of any size can stand up to the tobacco industry and take strong action to save lives and protect public health.”
