Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I was astounded to read that 1 million people died in Europe last year as a consequence of being overweight and obesity. Moreover, it is predicted that by 2015, 1.5 billion will have died. Meanwhile, the global diet industry commands a gross annual profit of €13.9 billion. Some of the answers to disordered and unhealthy eating can be found by an examination of that industry. I have young teenagers who, although very slim, are always on crash diets which require them to restrict their food choices severely.

Ultimately, however, the buck stops with parents and it is vital that they have control over what is in their cupboards. My six year old does not decide how my cupboards are restocked at the weekend. As I have said, however, pricing is an important element in this. What is happening in poorer areas is that parents are going for the easier-fix solution. People are buying bags of frozen chips and everything else, or a can of carrots instead of peeling three carrots into a pot to cook them. Education is vital if we are to achieve a change in behaviours. I realise that resources are extremely restricted, but would the delegates consider running a television advertising campaign based on the information contained in the booklet? Television is the most effective medium through which to get any message across because it has very high penetration across all groups, in both poor and rich areas.

I am not a fan of McDonalds but when I went to a birthday party there last week I found it was standing room only. By contrast, there were plenty of tables to be had last Saturday in the small family-run restaurant close to my home where one could expect to enjoy a nutritious, well-balanced meal. I thank the delegates again for their presentations. There is a wow factor to what they are saying. The bottom line, however, is that action must begin at home.