The Manitoba government is banning smoking on Native reserves.  The province announced it will ban smoking from First Nation gaming centres, bars and restaurants with liquor licenses September 1st 2007, while new establishments must comply immediately.  Long Plain Chief Dennis Meeches believes reserves have been doing enough to ensure non-smokers are protected--many have established their own smoking ban in government buildings. 
Meeches is certain the ban will be challenged by First Nation leaders. 
Meanwhile Portage MLA David Faurschou notes liquor licenses are regulated by the province and believes the same rules and regulations should apply to native reserves.  Reports say the province hasn't ruled out taking away licenses if establishments don't comply to the ban.