Opinion: A smoker will never stop smoking, and his child will go hungry as a result (video)
Psychologist Samvel Khudoyan hails the decision to put a ban on smoking in public places. At the same time, he says we must be consistent in order to achieve results. However, the psychologist does not agree with the amount of the fine. Under the proposal, the government would also prohibit smoking in government and private offices, as well as all restaurants, cafes and bars. The owners of such businesses failing to comply with the ban would be fined in the amount of $10,000. “Of course, this is a fantastic amount of money. Perhaps there is some misunderstanding concerning the amount of fine. AMD 10 000 could become such a hindrance. A company owner can deprive his/her employees of additional premiums and bonuses. This will also work,” said Samvel Khudoyan. The psychologist also proposes to increase anti-smoking campaigns and post ads that will make people feel humiliated. “For example, I do not care that I will have a bad impact on my child’s health.” The psychologist also approves of a sharp rise in the prices of cigarettes. “A smoker will never stop smoking and as a result, his child will go hungry,” he said. According to the Ministry of Health, 55 percent of men and 3 percent of women are regular smokers in Armenia.
