Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 September 2011
456 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health his plans to tackle the issue of childhood obesity in view of new statistics which show that 25% of three year old children here are obese; the level of co-ordination in place between him and other Government Departments regarding same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24914/11]
View answerMy Department, in conjunction with other organisations and Government Departments, is involved in a number of programmes that encourage the adoption of healthy lifestyles. We also have healthy eating guidelines specifically targeted at children, one for children in preschools and another for primary school children. In parallel, the Health Service Executive is involved in many programmes to help prevent obesity. Earlier this year I set up a Special Action Group on Obesity, comprising representatives from my Department, the Department of Children and Youth Affairs, the Health Service Executive, the Food Safety Authority of Ireland and Safefood to examine and progress a number of issues to address the problem of obesity, including nutritional labelling, calorie posting on restaurant menus, restrictions on the marketing to children and the treatment of obesity. The Group will liaise with other Departments and organisations as required.
