Obesity Strategy

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2015

Tuesday, 23 June 2015

Questions (431)

Mick Wallace

Question:

431. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of the recent decision by the local government in San Francisco, to ban the inclusion of toys with fast food outlet meals (details supplied); his views on the promotion and advertisement methods used by fast food outlets here, such as the inclusion of toys along with meals for children; if he believes that such promotions can place undue pressure on parents who seek to limit their children's access to such foods; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24750/15]

Written answers

Minister for Health

I am aware of the San Francisco initiative referred to by the Deputy. As obesity is a major public health challenge, my Department and I, have initiated a number of developments to address the problem:

1. Developing an Obesity Policy and Action Plan to be finalised this year.

2. Establishing a technical group which will develop a code of conduct on marketing, promotion and sponsorship of food.

3. Currently preparing legislation on Calorie Posting on Menus.