Iqaluit (Mar 31/03) - Nunavut smokers could soon be forced not only outside but away from some public buildings if new tobacco legislation gets passed this week.

Bill 33, the territory's proposed Tobacco Control Act, passed second reading last week. Once it is given 3rd reading, the act will set restrictions on the sale and use of tobacco products in Nunavut.

Smoking in public places of work will be banned, as will smoking within three metres of a public entrance to the work place.

When it comes to schools, smoking is prohibited within 15 metres of an entrance.

The act will also ban the sale of tobacco products in vending machines or in pharmacies.

As well, all candy or goods mimicking tobacco products will be banned once the act is read into law.

Hefty fines are also on tap.

Depending on the section being contravened, a corporation can face fines ranging from $15,000 to $300,000. Similarly, individuals could be paying between $4,000 and $100,000 for breaking the act.

Health Minister Ed Picco said the bill will help curb the high smoking rates in the territory.

George White, manager of the Quick Stop convenience store in Iqaluit, said he is in favour of smoking legislation.

The biggest problem he foresees is enforcement.

Currently, the legal age to purchase tobacco in the city is 18 -- the new act will bump that age up to 19. He also believes the three-metre restriction around public entrances should be higher, in the range of 10 metres.

"I don't smoke and I shouldn't have to breathe in other people's smoke when I walk in a door," he said.

Although in support of legislation, he said he knows the law is going to cause problems.

"It's going to cause problems for my store to enforce it. It's going to cause conflict," said White, referring to people smoking outside his store.