Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 February 2004
319 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children his views on the recent budget measure which introduces benefit-in-kind taxation for employees, when employers provide free medical check ups; and if this move is consistent with the Government's preventative health policy. [3579/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe introduction of benefit in kind for employees when employers provide free medical check ups is a matter for the Minister for Finance. However, routine medical check ups by employees give rise to many health benefits especially in relation to promoting the health of the workforce and preventing disease. The National Health Promotion Strategy 2000-2005 sets out the policy framework to promote the health of the population. The health promotion unit of my Department works in partnership with other statutory and non-statutory bodies to create a health promoting supportive environment including educational measures, working with key groups and in key settings. The implementation of the national health promotion strategy and the cardiovascular health strategy have progressed the development of workplace health promotion, in particular through the appointment of workplace health promotion co-ordinators in each health board.
