The Republic of Ireland's domestic tourist industry is counting the cost of the smoking ban. Since it's introduction hotels and guest houses have seen a dramatic fall off in the number of visitors requiring accommodation. Some businesses have ceased trading or severely curtailed services. Many have witnessed the tourist season cut short leading to countless job losses not only in the hotels themselves, but also in the adjacent service industry and associated businesses who rely on tourist numbers for their income.

It's not just local tourists who are unhappy with the ban. Many foreign and international tourists have also been expressing their displeasure not realising the extent and totalitarian nature of the ban until they arrive. "It's crazy," said one irate American tourist. I've spent all this money to visit my homeland and have to put up with standing outside in the rain and wind everytime I wish to have a cigarette "

Thought reluctant to admit it, those tasked with promoting tourism in Ireland are increasingly becoming alarmed at the negative impact the ban is having. Constantly the number one reason stated by tourists for visiting Ireland is 'the people they encounter and meet' However with the smoking ban clearing native Irish people from bars and other places where they and locals mingle, the tourist industry is losing its number one visitor attraction. Soulless bars devoid of native Irish people and spontaneous fun so cherished by tourists does not bode well for the Irish tourist  industry competing in an ever increasingly competitive market.