Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)

We are all learning that health is a multifaceted area that needs to be supported and tackled with a range of resources. We referred to obesity and research and how sport can be used as a weapon against obesity, and by virtue of that against ill health.

The role of the alcohol industry is an important one. The question is whether we can continue the double think of supporting the industry at one level and denouncing it at another level, especially in the context of sport. I do not have the figures for the drop-out rate of young people aged between 15 and 20 but I know it is substantial. We do need to address that issue to try to hold on to young people. It is not easy to hold on to them up to the age of 15 but beyond that other interests present and it becomes increasingly difficult to continue to retain them in sporting activities. That is why the Irish Sports Council programmes are very important.

Deputy Upton inquired about obesity. I recognise that issue has to be addressed at various levels, including diet. Lifestyle is an important factor in obesity and environmental issues. The role of sport is very much at the centre of health promotion. Sport can play a leading role in tackling obesity. We are making every effort to ensure that is happening and to bring about joined-up Government in terms of health, sport, the environment and various Departments and agencies that have a direct involvement in it.

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