The Republic was the first country to impose a workplace smoking ban in 2004 - which countries have followed suit since?
Australia:A smoking ban has been phased into workplaces in most states and territories since July 2005. From July 2007, the ban will be extended to cover bars and restaurants.
Canada:Since the province of New Brunswick adopted a ban on smoking sections and on smoking in public places in October 2004, most other provinces have also made the move. British Columbia will introduce a state-wide ban on smoking in public places in 2008. Yukon is currently debating a bill on the issue. If it passes, the province will become the last in Canada to ban smoking in public places.
Cuba:In February, Cuba introduced a ban on smoking on public transport, in shops and other enclosed spaces.
Wales:Smoking has been banned in enclosed public places including pubs, restaurants and public transport since April 2007. Offices are also prohibited from having smoking rooms.
France:The smoking ban was introduced into workplaces and other public buildings in February 2007. It is expected that the ban will extend to cafes, restaurants and bars in 2008.
Italy:Smoking is banned in all enclosed public places including bars and restaurants since January 2005. Smoking is allowed in sealed off areas that have been fitted with smoke extractors.
England, Scotland and Northern Ireland:A full ban on smoking in the workplace will be introduced in England in July. Scotland introduced a ban in March 2006, Northern Ireland introduced a ban in April 2007.
Montenegro:Legislation to ban smoking in public places was introduced in 2004. It came into force in 2005 and it also banned tobacco advertising and the portrayal of smoking on television.
The Netherlands:Dutch authorities banned smoking in public places including trains, toilets and offices in January 2004. The ban is expected to extend to bars and restaurants in January 2008.
Norway:Since June 2004 smoking has been banned in restaurants, bars and cafes to protect staff and discourage smoking as a social pastime.
Spain:Smoking is prohibited in offices, shops, schools, hospitals, cultural centres and public transport since January 2006.
Sweden:In May 2006 Sweden introduced a ban on smoking in bars and restaurants. No food or drink can be served in smoking areas which must be closed off and be fitted with specially designed ventilation.
Iran:Smoking in public buildings and tobacco advertising has been banned since October 2003. It is also banned in religious buildings, hotels, restaurants, cinemas, sport centres and airports. However, it is rarely enforced.
Singapore:Smoking is banned in food shops, restaurants, public halls, offices, banks and factories. In July the ban will be extended to bars, clubs and outdoor refreshment areas.
Tanzania:Public places, including schools, hospitals and public transport have been smoke free since July 2003.
United States:New York introduced a ban on smoking in bars, clubs and restaurants in March 2003. About half of Americans are now covered by a smoking ban which has been introduced in many states and cities. California's laws are considered the toughest - smoking is banned in workplaces, beaches and within six metres of public buildings.