Dr. Muireann Cullen:

Healthy eating should be as natural as anything physical. We wash our teeth twice a day. Likewise, healthy eating should be as natural to us. Part of the difficulty is that healthy eating, as well as physical activity, is not considered sexy. My colleagues from the Institute of Leisure and Amenity Management know much more about this, but the body image concern comes into play when girls move into their teens. Sporty girls are seen as more masculine. We need to dispel this and create a positive movement around physical activity. Walking, for example, presents a great opportunity for families to spend time together away from the pressures of school and work.

I am very passionate about intervention. The food industry has a role to play. I am not here to defend the industry because the organisation I am in is a multi-stakeholder one. I am sure, however, that Food and Drink Industry Ireland would be more than willing to have a chat with the Deputy. There is work being done with regard to the reformulation of products. Absolutely anything and everything should be encouraged to provide healthier options. It is an area that is being worked on, but more needs to be done. Every sector has a responsibility in this regard.