University of Limerick preparing to become a ‘smoke-free’ zone

"This is a programme close to my heart,” Dr Des Fitzgerald said following the announcement that the University of Limerick plans to introduce designated smoke-free zones around the campus.

The university president announced that the third-level institution ultimately plans to become a 'No-Smoking' campus which means that the use of electronic cigarettes, electronic cigars, electronic pipes or other such electronic nicotine delivery systems intended to simulate smoking will be prohibited.

UL will be following in the footsteps of Athlone institute and Westport College who have completely banned the use of tobacco products on campus.

University College Dublin and Trinity College are working in the same vein as UL, with Dr Fitzgerald asserting that the plan will reinforce the University of Limerick's positive reputation.

"UL has an outstanding reputation for its campus, for the care and support it provides students and for its sports culture, and the Healthy Campus Initiative is an important step in developing this further," he said.

With the introduction of designated smoke-free zones and the establishment of support programmes for staff and students eager to quit the habit, Dr Fitzgerald is confident that the entire student body will benefit from the move.

“Through this initiative we aim to create a model of excellence and to promote a healthy environment in which to develop the minds and bodies of our students,”he continued.

The number and location of the smoke-free zones has yet to be finalised, but the Limerick Leader has confirmed that some areas will be introduced as early as next month.