With the onset of the harsh winter weather conditions, Fermanagh's Chief Environmental Health Officer has reminded all business premises of their need to comply with the smoke-free legislation.

Robert Forde was speaking after Fermanagh District Council carried out a major enforcement campaign to ensure the legislation was being adhered to seven months after its introduction.

Environmental Health Officers carried out visits throughout the Council area focusing mainly on premises within the hospitality sector such as hotels, pubs, clubs, restaurants and bingo halls primarily because these types of premises attract greater numbers of people.

"With the onset of the winter months and the associated cold and wet weather, it is important for premises to ensure that there is continued compliance with the smoke-free legislation," said Mr Forde.

"As part of the weekend blitz our Officers were checking to ensure that premises were remaining smoke-free and that any smoking shelters provided for customers were in compliance with the required 50% rule. They were also checking to ensure that the relevant signage was been displayed at the entrances to premises."

Officers will continue to carry out monitoring work relating to the smoke-free legislation including routine visits to premises in relation to the enforcement of other Environmental Health legislation such as Food Safety and Health and Safety.