The smoking ban should be reconsidered as it is leading to despair among some people, the Government was told today.
Independent TD Mr Finian McGrath launched a no-holds-barred attack on the ban, telling the Minister for Health Mr Martin it was hitting tourism and forcing people to smoke outside bars making them easier prey for drug dealers.
Urging the minister to consider the downside of the ban, the Dublin North Central TD said: "It is having a negative impact on people's social activities and is leading to despair.
"So far we have the following: elderly pensioners forced to sit at home; smokers are extremely angry and feel the ' nanny state' is interfering in their private lives.
"The majority are forcing their views on the minority of smokers. People addicted to smoking need understanding and support not lectures from the 'health police'.
"Thousands of smokers are now cancelling weekends away to Galway or Kerry and looking abroad for their breaks. This is damaging to Irish tourism.
"Foreign visitors from Spain and France are dismayed by our laws and lack of tolerance. This will in time reduce the numbers visiting Ireland.
"Young people forced to stand outside pubs for a cigarette are now easy target for drug pushers. They do not have to worry about security staff at the door and can distribute the drugs easily.
"Women are now more at risk standing outside."
Mr McGrath said complaints about noise and anti-social behaviour had also increased since the ban was introduced in March.
The ban also covers workplaces including restaurants. Norway has also banned smoking in bars and restaurants.
Widows who smoked, Mr McGrath claimed, were now imprisoned in their homes and couldn't go to the pub for a drink and chat.
Elderly men who smoke pipes were also being excluded.
The Dublin North Central TD called for rooms to be set aside in bars and clubs for smokers.
"The way forward is to designate rooms in each pub with tables and chairs for smokers without staff and then everyone's rights are respected and accommodated," he argued.
"I would urge the minister to think again on this important social issue."
In July, Co Galway publican Mr Padraig Folan became the first owner of a bar to be prosecuted for flouting the ban.
Mr Folan, whose pub is in the village of Lettermore, Connemara, was fined €1,200 for breaching the legislation and ordered to pay €500 in costs.