Two publicans in Co Meath have been inundated with orders for an outdoor smoking "patiola" that they have nicknamed "the smoking solution" since they became sole agents in Ireland for the Belgian-made shelters.
Before the Minister for Health announced the ban, Mr Michael Durkan and Mr John Lynch, proprietors of the Old Mill pub in Julianstown, were last year trying to source a unit that would partially cover what was their beer garden. "We could not find what we wanted in Ireland and ended up in Belgium where we found this awning and we believe it is the solution for publicans and hoteliers," said Mr Lynch.
A retractable canopy erected on the outside wall of the premises provides shelter from the elements and the three side areas are not fully enclosed but are still protected from the wind.
They believe that the smoking ban will lead to more Irish people dining and drinking al fresco whatever the season.
"In Paris and all over Europe you will see people in their heavy coats sitting outside and now it can be done here." The canopy is made from a water-proofed sail cloth and the windows in the side walls reach about three quarters of the way up to the canopied roof and allow plenty of fresh air in while protecting you from the wind and rain.
Mr Durkan and Mr Lynch realised they had found the potential solution to the problems facing vintners and have advertised the awnings within the licensing industry. They have two representatives on the road responding to the interest so far and say they have been "inundated" with calls.
"We have 150 enquiries and, to be honest, we are going to stop advertising for the next month so we can deal with them," said Mr Lynch.