Margarett Best. Photo: Adu Raudkivi
This is an annual event, that falls on weedless Wednesday plus one day (Thursday January 20, 2011). A media conference was held on the Wednesday.
Minister Best is very enthusiastic about people stopping smoking. "Since I have been minister, in 2003, there has been a decrease in smoking," said Minister Best proudly.
Unfortunately there are still 2.1 million people, in Ontario, who smoke. 250 people die each week from smoking.
Besides the advertising www.leavethepackbehind.ca , the ministry is raffling off a car to a person who stops smoking, and keeps it up for a certain while. Details on website www.determinedtoquit.ca
A question from the audience asked why Premier Dalton McGuinty didn't prohibit smoking in apartment buildings. Minister Best pointed out that a person’s home is their castle and that government rule has to draw the line somewhere.
Part of the ministry's promotion is to eat right. Lowering portions, fat, salt and sugar will reduce heart attacks and strokes. Exercise is very important (another source said 2.5 hours per week of exercise).
Another item of pride for Minister Best falls under the purview of sport. Her ministry is responsible for the 2015 Pan American Games which are being consrtructed in the University of Toronto Scarborough (swimming pool which has to be paid by the City of Toronto), and Don Valley west by the lake plus other areas in Ontario.
When Minister Best speaks of the responsibility she carries about health and stopping smoking, she lights up. She is a missionary on subject. Eesti Kodu/Ehatare is well served.