branches next year.

The bank's senior vice president of personnel, Mr. Louis Mowbray, said as of January 4 all branches and administrative offices of the bank will not allow smoking.

And free smoking-cessation classes were available to all staff.

Calling the policy a "timely'' one that will be strictly enforced, Mr.

Mowbray said it is being initiated after careful study.

"Smoking, and particularly second-hand smoke, has proven negative health consequences,'' he said. "Tobacco-related illnesses account for lost man hours and decreased productivity. This translates into increased costs and inefficiencies.

"The bottom line is safeguarding the health and well being of our staff and customers.

"If we discourage smoking at the bank we hope more people will quit altogether. It's a policy that helps us all breathe easier.

"We believe that it is in the interest of our staff and customers to provide a smoke-free environment.'' "No Smoking'' signs will be posted in all bank facilities.

The bank's policy follows Government's decision to make all its offices smoke free.

And Bank of N.T. Butterfield's general manager of personnel and administration, Mr. Mansfield Brock, said while the bank still allowed smoking in coffee rooms and the cafeteria, it has had a "restrictive'' smoking policy for many years.