Vol. 432 No. 3
140 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry if he will reply to correspondence (details supplied) from Deputy Seymour Crawford with regard to recommendations given by the Department of Health about the use of butter or low fat spreads in school lunches.
The matter referred to by the Deputy and about which he has written to me is a circular which was issued by the Ministers for Education and Health to principals of primary schools seeking their co-operation in promoting good eating habits among school children, in particular through healthy school lunches. The objective of promoting healthy eating habits among young people is laudable and is one which I obviously support. It is notable that dairy products are at the top of the list of foods which are recommended in the circular.
There are varying views as to the relative merits of high and low fat products from a medical point of view. The provision of dietary advice for school children in so far as such products are concerned is, however, ultimately a matter for the Minister for Health.
A response has issued to the letter from Deputy Crawford.
