Smoking ban a municipal decision: government

The Manitoba government says municipalities have the right to ban smoking at outdoor fields.

Healthy Living Minister Jim Rondeau is rejecting a call from Winnipeg city council for a provincewide ban on smoking at soccer fields and other outdoor venues.

He says he has always left the decision up to each municipality.

An anti-smoking law enacted in 2004 statesthat municipalities have the authority to expand the provincial smoking ban, which covers indoor public spaces.

Rondeau says municipal councils are best able to understand their local needs.

The Manitoba Soccer Association is considering a smoking ban atmatches this summer following complaints from parents and players.