Forest Ireland criticises ban on smoking at three mental health units in Cork

Tue 27th February, 2018

Forest Ireland has criticised a ban on smoking at three mental health units in Cork.

John Mallon, spokesman for the group, said: "If someone is in a mental health unit it's because they're facing a number of issues in their lives.

"Why add to the burden by banning something they enjoy and may offer comfort at a difficult or stressful time?"

He added: "As a mental health patient your independence is inevitably restricted. Banning smoking adds to the loss of autonomy.

"It also discriminates against those who are less mobile or can't go off site on their own.

"The policy may be well-meaning but it's no way to treat people who are already in a vulnerable state."

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