Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 May 2017
841. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Health the position regarding the National Obesity Policy and Action Plan 2016 – 2025; the actions undertaken to date in relation to an agreement on food reformulation targets with the food industry (details supplied); the estimated impact this will have on Exchequer funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19417/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraA Healthy Weight for Ireland – Obesity Policy and Action Plan, 2016 – 2025 was launched in September 2016. The Policy sets out a 10 Steps Forward, 20 priorities and 60 actions to be undertaken during its life time.
Of the priority actions the following has been achieved:
1. Publication of Healthy Eating Guidelines and Food Pyramid;
2. Production of a paper on taxing Sugar Sweetened Drink; and
3. The Department provided leadership and collaborated with international organisations including World Health Organisation, EU (High Level Group on the prevention of childhood obesity and reformulation of food ) as well as North –South cooperation.
The following has commenced:
1. The development of legislation for calorie posting on menus;
2. Development of a Code of Practice for food and drink promotion, marketing and sponsorship;
3. Appointment of a clinical lead within the health service;
4. Inclusion of obesity prevention and care in the GP contract;
5. Implementation of the National Physical Activity Plan;
6. Development of obesity research.
The Code of Practice is in its final stage of development and will be launched very shortly.
In relation to reformulation of food to reduce fat, sugar and salt, my Department is in the process of establishing a national food product improvement Working Group and is working with the EU Commission on the Working Group on food improvement. This work will be used as a guide for Member States.
