Liz McManus
Question:47 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the growing practice of commercial interests sponsoring medical and dietary campaigns; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Medical and Dietary Promotions.
I am aware of at least one recent instance of the type of campaign referred to by the Deputy. As a general rule my Department's health promotion unit does not engage in joint promotional activities with the commercial sector. In instances where my Department becomes involved in such campaigns it is with a view to ensuring that the overall direction is in keeping with current Departmental policy in these matters.
My Department's health promotion unit did enlist, and will continue to enlist, the support of the generic food agencies and the retail food sector in our very successful National Healthy Eating Week. I am convinced of the need for this kind of intersectoral approach in the health promotion area generally.