Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 October 2016
413. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Health the funding which will be available to support the implementation of the obesity policy and action plan (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31598/16]
View answerThe Obesity Policy provides an opportunity to work collectively, across Government, in different sectors, from the national level and down to community actions to support healthy lifestyles and reduce obesity. The Healthy Ireland Fund of 5 million euro will provide for projects in a variety of settings including education, local authorities, workplaces and communities. This will support actions taken across the education, environment, transport, social protection and agriculture sectors, all designed to create a healthier Ireland. These will be evidence based and targeted at disadvantaged communities and children.
The Obesity Policy and Action Plan contains 60 actions which will be implemented, monitored and evaluated. The policy acknowledges that obesity prevention services in the community as well as specialist hospital services will need to be strengthened. A key element is the appointment of a Clinical Lead for Obesity in the HSE. The allocation of increased funding to Health and Well-being in the HSE will reflect that Obesity is a priority for the health services and included in the HSE service plan for 2017.
