Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 17 Oct 2000

Vol. 524 No. 2

Written Answers. - Diabetes Awareness.

Denis Naughten

Question:

262 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans he has to fund a public awareness campaign on diabetes and the risks associated with it; the steps which will be taken to reduce the risk of developing diabetes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21960/00]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin):

The health promotion unit of my Department continues to financially support the Diabetes Federation for health promotion initiatives. Some £7,500 was made available to the federation to allow it produce materials for its national walk day in May of this year.

Officials of my Department have also been in discussion with the Diabetes Federation about how we can highlight the risk factors for diabetes through our planned campaigns next year. This would involve the national healthy eating campaign and the Ireland needs a Change of Heart campaign. The health promotion unit is committed to providing accurate information through its planned campaigns and will continue to endeavour to facilitate the Diabetes Federation in the course of its ongoing work.

Question No. 263 taken with Question No. 261.