asked the Minister for Health if he will outline the extent of EC health policy at Council of Ministers level; and if he has any initiative in this area.
Written Answers. - EC Health Policy.
204.
Among the items of health policy which are currently being discussed at Council of Ministers level in the EC are the following:
AIDS
The Council of Ministers are concerned with the fight against AIDS which is a priority international issue in the field of public health. This involves an exchange of views on the epidemiological situation and on national strategies and measures to combat AIDS. It involves the drawing up of a common strategy and coordination to deal with AIDS and preventing the development of contradictory national policies which might give rise to discrimination.
Europe Against Cancer Programme
This involves exchange of views on the activities of the Community and member states in the fight against cancer with particular reference to European Cancer Information Year in 1989. The programme is divided into four main areas, cancer prevention, information and health education in the prevention of cancer, training of health professionals and cancer research. A "European Week Against Cancer" was organised in May 1988 which was very successful in Ireland and generated a lot of interest and discussion about cancer among the general public.
Tobacco
Smoking is a major cause of premature mortality and preventable morbidity in Europe. Discussions on tobacco control concern proposals for a directive on the labelling of tobacco products broadly in line with existing Irish regulations, and the printing of tar and nicotine levels on cigarette packets. Anti-smoking measures are seen as a central component of the fight against cancer in the community.
Other initiatives are being developed in relation to:
Medical Technology Assessment
Toxicology
Emergency Health Care
Genetic Technology
Foodstuffs Intended For Particular Nutritional Uses
Involvement of Lay People in First Aid.