Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

Even the best laid plans can go awry and yesterday's publicity stunt did not work as well as anticipated. However, I wish to raise a different issue. There is good news today in a report showing that the percentage of smokers in Ireland has fallen from 23% to 17%. However, obesity levels are among the highest in Europe, at 60% of the population. Smoking rates are highest among young people, the unemployed and those living in deprived areas. While education and information campaigns are vital, it is important, too, to look at best practice internationally. The Government's Healthy Ireland strategy involves all Departments and all agencies of State promoting healthy lifestyles, but that effort is not underpinned by law. In a world first, Wales has legislated for all public bodies to publish health impact assessments. Norway has legislated to recognise that economic inequality is a root cause of health inequalities. Does the Government have any plans for similar legislation? Health promotion is a critical part of our health strategy.

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