Vol. 566 No. 1
117 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Health and Children if he plans to carry out research similar to that carried out internationally into the impact which participation in sport by ten-24 year olds has on the likelihood that they will never take drugs. [11124/03]
118 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Health and Children if he plans to carry out research similar to that carried out internationally into the impact which participation in sport by ten-24 year olds has on the likelihood that they will never smoke. [11123/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 117 and 118 together.
Two national baseline surveys of health-related behaviours among adults and school-going children were carried out in 1998 and again in 2002. The main aims of these surveys were to produce reliable data of a representative cross-section of the Irish population in order to form the basis of any departmental health promotion policy and programme planning. The aim is also to maintain a survey protocol, which will enable lifestyle factors to be re-measured so that trends can be identified, and changes monitored to assist national and regional setting of priorities in health promotion activities. The reports focus on these two cross-sectional studies, SLÁN, survey of lifestyles, attitudes and nutrition, adults aged 18+ years and HBSC, health behaviour in school-aged children, school-going children aged ten-17 years.
In keeping with the health and lifestyle surveillance system of many European countries a number of related factors were measured in both surveys. These include general health, smoking, use of alcohol and other substances, food and nutrition, accidents and physical activity. While it is intended to continue with these national surveys there is, at this stage, no plan to conduct the research referred to by the Deputy.
Question No. 119 answered with Question No. 101.
