Ban on cigarettes

IN inspiring our population to lead a healthy life, I strongly believe that cigarettes must not be imported or made in Fiji.

Unfortunately for some people cigarettes are like their breakfast, lunch and dinner.

This is one of the contributors towards health-related diseases.

No doubts about it.

The sad part is that a number of school students are involved in this deadly activity.

The sad part is that there has been a rapid rise in the sale of single cigarettes.

Now, this is a matter of grave concern as concerned authorities need to get to the root of this problem as I feel that the sellers must be selling cigarettes to first-timers, underaged and mostly students.

An important area that needs attention is the fact that students have access to cigarettes as it is sold within the vicinity of the schools.

I think small business enterprises must not be permitted to sell cigarettes.

There has to be some control so that students and young minds are saved and not lured.

The implementation of fines and banning of smoking in public places will not pay any dividends if we continue to manufacture and sell cigarettes in our local markets.

I was really shocked to see an advertisement on the television that was portraying the impact of cigarette butts on our marine creatures.

So devastating as it may sound.

A lot has to be done about eradicating cigarettes from our blood veins.

In fact, I believe Fiji should be declared a smoke-free nation.

NAVEEN DUTT

Wainibokasi