Knocked out by disregard for smoking

This weekend I attended a sold-out event at the MFCC tent at Ta' Qali organised by Knockout Events. The entry ticket clearly stated that "No smoking is allowed" and, although under Maltese law it is forbidden to smoke in indoor public places, a good number of party goers where smoking to their heart's content.

The smoke inhalation was unbearable. I was not even able to witness the artiste perform as I was forced to leave prematurely due to watery eyes and a seriously blocked nose coupled with a sore throat. My night out was ruined by the selfish few who blatantly ignore the law. Furthermore, being a crowded event, I constantly dodged getting burnt in the face by cigarettes held at eye level in front of me, beside me and behind me. I was literally surrounded by smokers.

To add insult to injury, out of curiosity I told the security personnel at the door that attendees were illegally smoking indoors. He replied that he couldn't do anything about it and it was best I took it up with the police outside the building.

On my way to the car I did just that, where the reply I got from a police officer was that he was not in a position to do anything about the situation as it was up to the security personnel to curb the smoking. It was not a very reassuring answer, since the police have the duty to prevent any criminal offence no matter where it is occurring and even more so when it is brought to their attention.

Unfortunately, non-smokers are not able to enjoy a smoke-free environment. Knockout Events could very well live up to its name as with such smoke levels and unashamed lack of action, one is definitely knocked out.