181 new/expanded bars and restaurants since Smoke-free Bylaws: City Report

Ottawa - April 24, 2003

A total of 181 new and expanded bars and restaurants have opened since the City of Ottawa's Smoke-free By-laws were enacted in September 2001. The hospitality sector has clearly adapted and is continuing to expand.

The City staff report, released today, includes the list of bars and restaurants that have been newly built, purchased, or expanded. This list contains new establishments and establishments where a new owner has invested in creating a new business.

"This continued and substantial growth just proves what a vibrant and confident group of entrepreneurs operates our hospitality sector," Says Councillor Dwight Eastman. "These results, along with the virtually one hundred per cent compliance, are further evidence that clean and safe public and work places are now a fact of life in Ottawa."

This latest report adds further confirmation to the results of a KPMG study released last fall on the economic impact of the Smoke-free By-laws on the hospitality sector. That report claimed that, despite tough economic times, the Ottawa hospitality sector is in sound economic shape and continues to expand.

For further information:
City Councillor Dwight Eastman
(613) 580 - 2475