Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the contributors for coming before the committee and sharing their thoughts on this issue. They may be diverse but we will always have diverse opinions in a democracy.

I wish to make a number of points. I share the concern of the speakers about the figures quoted on obesity and the prediction that by 2030 half our adult population will be obese. Apart from the health and welfare of people the drain that will put on the Exchequer in the future is a serious concern, although it is secondary to our concern for people's welfare.

Mention was made of awareness in schools but highlighting the issue must begin at home. Given that a recent report by the Irish League of Credit Unions stated that families have only €100 disposal income at the end of the month, inexpensive, unhealthy food versus expensive healthy food is a major issue. Some families would love to give their children the healthiest food available but they cannot afford to do that. The primary aim is to feed their family.

From speaking to my constituents I am aware that the national playground policy of 2002 is quite successful in terms of playgrounds being installed in large urban areas and larger villages throughout the constituency. That was a major benefit in terms of encouraging children to exercise on a more frequent basis.

Mr. White rightly stated that dealing with this problem cannot all be down to personal responsibility but I am a firm believer in personal responsibility and taking responsibilities for our own decisions. Whether it be from a health or financial perspective one cannot abdicate one's responsibility in totality. One must take responsibility for oneself and one's own actions. Otherwise, where would we draw the line?

As legislators it behoves us to consider introducing legislation. There was news in the media this week about a sugar tax and banning the advertising of unhealthy food. Those are issues we can examine but the witnesses might respond on some of the points I raised or if there is anything else they believe we should be doing they should bring it to our attention.