There has been social media criticism of Belfast International Airport after they confirmed their popular smoking area inside the departure lounge has been closed.
In a statement on Facebook, the airport confirmed that the change would mean smokers will have to remain outside the terminal.
However, this smoking area is only available before passengers proceed through security to get ready for their flight.
A spokesperson for the airport told this newspaper the decision was made due to “persistent vandalism”.
In a statement, the airport posted: “We have taken the decision to close the smoking gallery situated in airside departures area. Smoking will only be permitted in designated smoking areas at the front of the terminal building.”
The post was met with a mixed reaction from users online to the news.
One person branded the change “ridiculous”, as someone else said: “Terrible decision and I don’t smoke…not fair on ones that do.”
Another person wrote: “It doesn’t affect me directly, but a bit of a joke for people who do indulge, especially if your flight is delayed.”
In a statement to the Belfast Telegraph, a spokesperson for the airport said: “Following persistent vandalism, we have been left with no option but to close the smoking gallery situated in the airside departures area.
“We will be keeping the situation under review as we progress with our building works.
“Smoking remains permitted in the designated areas and at the front of the terminal building.”
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News Catch Up – Wednesday 22 January