You're Fired

For *Not* Smoking. This i9s both very amusing in its own way and a wonderful example of why most countries haven't tried to tackle the problem this way.

The owner of a small German computer company has fired three non-smoking workers because they were threatening to disturb the peace after they requested a smoke-free environment.

The manager of the 10-person IT company in Buesum, named Thomas J., told the Hamburger Morgenpost newspaper he had fired the trio because their non-smoking was causing disruptions.

Germany introduced non-smoking rules in pubs and restaurants on January 1, but Germans working in small offices are still allowed to smoke.

"I can't be bothered with trouble-makers," Thomas was quoted saying. "We're on the phone all the time and it's just easier to work while smoking. Everyone picks on smokers these days. It's time for revenge. I'm only going to hire smokers from now on."

My word you've got to admire the man's courage there!

And of course, this is why the other governments haven't taken this route. The aim is to stop people smoking, not to allow people to smoke if they wish. So of course the smoking has been banned rather than allowing epople to make choices as he hsa done.

Bet you change the rules soon though.