LOON LAKE GRADUATING CLASS ALL NON-SMOKERS

Health Minister John Nilson today congratulated the entire graduating class of Ernie Studer School in Loon Lake for choosing to be smoke-free.

"The graduates of Ernie Studer School have set such an excellent example for Saskatchewan young people to follow," Nilson said. "Over the past year, these 16 students have supported and guided each other in order to reach their goal of being a graduating class of non-smokers. They made a commitment to help one another either quit smoking, or refrain from starting in the first place, and that is highly commendable, especially in a province where youth smoking rates are a concern."

The accomplishment of the Ernie Studer School graduating class echoes the smoke-free goals of tobacco control legislation in Saskatchewan. The Tobacco Control Act prohibits smoking in all public places, including restaurants, bars, bingo halls, casinos, bowling alleys, and private clubs. It also bans the display and advertising of tobacco products in retail establishments where children have access.

The purpose of these provisions is to help keep young people from smoking, to reduce exposure to second-hand smoke, and to de-normalize tobacco use by making it the exception rather than the rule.

"It is so impressive that the 2005 graduating class of Ernie Studer School has taken up this challenge of helping to ensure a healthy future, for themselves and those around them," Nilson said. "I congratulate them on their courage and commitment to each other, and for making a positive difference in our community. I hope their dedication will start a trend for other students across the province to aim for their own smoke-free graduating classes."

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For More Information, Contact:

Jocelyn Argue Health Regina Phone: (306) 787-4083