Skycity Should Have Acted On Crowe Smoking

Skycity Should Have Acted On Crowe Smoking
– Smokefree Coalition

2 April 2006

Smokefree Coalition Director Mark Peck is disappointed that SkyCity did not enforce the smoking ban at Friday night’s rock concert by Russell Crowe. The singer and actor smoked on stage throughout his show.

“All around the country owners and managers are enforcing the smokefree legislation – SkyCity’s obligations are no different.

“Russell Crowe puffs out arsenic, hydrogen cyanide and ammonia when he smokes – just like anyone else. These are dangerous substances, hence the indoor smoking ban.

“With an increasing number of smoking bans in place around the world, New Zealand’s smokefree requirements could hardly have been a surprise to Mr Crowe. If they were, it was up to SkyCity to be clear about the requirements of performing at its venue.”

Mark Peck said it was particularly disappointing to see an entertainer smoking on stage.

“Musicians, and in particular singers, have been among the strongest supporters of this legislation. Second-hand smoke irritates the vocal cords, and can cause them to shut down entirely. Damage to the voice can cost musicians their careers.

“Many entertainers are now including smokefree air as a clause in their performance contracts. For example, British rock band, Queen, enforced a smokefree concert policy during its 2005 comeback tour.

“Smokefree air is the best support you can give a performer.”

ENDS

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