He spoke against a proposal to seek public consultation on the possible introduction of a smoke-free environment policy at the city council's meeting, believing the status quo should be maintained.

"I'm a non-smoker but I believe council is over-reacting," Cr Marks said, adding that smoking was still a legal practice and most smokers respected those around them.

"I'd rather see council embark on an education program, perhaps with the medical fraternity on board, to help some of these people (smokers). It is a very hard thing to give it away," he said

"If you're a heroin addict you get given everything under the sun... these poor smokers get nothing."

Cr Marks was one of two councillors ? along with Cr Kathryn Bell ? to vote against the proposal.

However the other seven councillors were supportive, Cr David Keegan highlighting the health benefits and the cost savings in cleaning tobacco-related litter.

"This is only going to go out on public exhibition (at this stage), it will then come back to council for more debate," he said, adding that the council had an obligation to promote public health outcomes.

Cr Alan Tickle said alfresco eateries were currently in a difficult position in asking diners not to smoke, while other diners could be impacted by smoking practices.

Cr Eddie Loftus believed the council should be pro-active in anti-smoking moves, highlighting NSW survey results ? which were included in a report prepared for the council ? which showed overwhelming support for smoking restrictions in areas such as playgrounds, outside workplace doors and entrances, sports stadiums and outdoor dining areas.

Cr Trent Jennison said there were a number of health issues regarding passive smoking and the council had an occupational health and safety obligation to put a policy in place after public consultation, adding that smoking costs the health system billions of dollars.