Promising hefty fines and even sentences, Greece's Public Health Department implemented third countrywide anti-smoking policy in eight years, attempting to crack down the smoking habit in European Union’s heaviest-smoking nation. 

As the legislation that was approved by the Greek government back in 2008 finally entered into valid force, Health Ministry Chairman Dimitris Avramopoulos boastfully named the smoking ban “sunset of smoking era in the country.”

During a news-conference Health Minister said that nobody would dare to light up inside any public establishment, since the fees for everyone violating the law have been too high.

He said that he hopes the entire health ministry’ efforts would not go in vain and they would manage to reduce smoking rates in the country. "

"What are we, the scabby sheep of Europe?" He added

In conformity with the latest regulations, tobacco smoking – once again- would be prohibited in public and administrative buildings, universities, transport, hospitals, and work places.

However, after two previous unsuccessful attempts to implement the ban within the last couple of years, and even an anti-smoking legislation imposed in 19th century, the majority of residents do not believe that the latest attempt would be effective.

Even ban supporters criticized the tobacco ban, saying that uncertainty and a great amount of loopholes and exemptions are likely to reduce the law to a kind of a smokescreen, giving enough space for anyone trying to evade it.

Alexandros Purkos, famous anti-smoking advocate said that for Greeks who are world-known for their waywardness and lack of discipline – including even the government - any comprehensive ban is unrealizable to impose.

But, the health Department persisted the ban is comprehensive and there ware no loopholes whereas all the exemptions will be passed later; however, many business owners simply don’t want to pay for rebuilding their premises as the new rules demand.  

Basing on the experience of two previous unsuccessful legislations, the latest one permits the large companies with at least 50 employees to launch separate smoking zones within their buildings.  

Venues of more than 70 square meters are permitted to set up designated sections for smokers, but only if such sections are physically separated and ventilated from the remaining part of the establishment.  

Small premises, less than 70 sq .m. can select themselves whether to become smoke-free or remain smoker-friendly.

Meantime, the majority of restaurant and bar owners decided to wait and estimate the public feedback within the half-year period.

"This ban is such awkward and ridiculous that it simply can’t be implemented or enforced. It's a stupid law," complained Dimos Ioannu, an owner of a restaurant “Pasadoble” in Thessalonica.

Health Department recruited almost 100 agents to enforce the ordinance and track violators.

Individuals caught on smoking in prohibited areas would have to pay 500 euros ($800) fine, whereas owners or managers who would not force their patrons to stop lighting up inside their establishments would pay up to 2.000 euros ($3.500).