said by DKS:I can't help it if Peterpatch is regressive. As for relegating a disgusting, vile habit to internment camps, fine with me. But there are better ways.
Hamilton, Niaraga Falls, Peterborough, Ottawa/NCR...
There's a broad spectrum of places that don't allow, or limit smoking in public...
I'm (essentially) a non-smoker, I made my wife quit before we got married... I see the results of smoking first hand (one of the leading causes of residential fires is smoking; as well as medical response to those who are suffering the effects of CA or other illness).
I'm not for smoking.
But it's legal.
I'm against the curtailing of the rights of citizens to perform a legal act... Just beacause no-smoking laws don't directly impact me, doesn't mean I don't care about the direction they head...
First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out--
Because I was not a Socialist.
Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out--
Because I was not a Trade Unionist.
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out--
Because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for me--and there was no one left to speak for me.
When 'they' start limiting the rights of one group to do legal activities, we have to pay attention... Just because it's something that doesn't change my life today; doesn't mean it won't tomorrow.
For the record, if they made smoking illegal tomorrow, I'd have zero problem with that... (even with the gov't paying for addiction treatment/stop smoking programs to assist addicts in kicking their fag habbit...)
(edit - spelling)