Move to tighten smoking bylaw passes committee vote

A council committee has approved expanding the city's smoking bylaw to include outdoor sports facilities in Calgary.

Theproposal includes outdoor pools, skating rinks, skate parks, playgrounds and sports fields.

Ald. Andre Chabot says he doesn't expect this will mean any big crackdown butmore about sending a message that smoking around recreation areas is not OK.

"We're basically just trying to set an example through this bylaw," said Chabot."Voluntary compliance is what the anticipated enforcement side of things is going to be, but if there are repeat offences in a given area ...then there's going to be some targeted enforcement actions that are going to take place to make sure that people are aware."

The measure will go to city council later this month.

If approved, it would take effect on August 1.