Gerard Murphy (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Question 220: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the progress to date on the implementation of the recommendations of the task force on obesity; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3012/06]

Gerard Murphy (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Question 239: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of recommendations of the national task force on obesity that have been implemented; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3013/06]

Seán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 220 and 239 together.

A multi-sectoral and multidisciplinary approach is required to implement the recommendations arising from a range of health promotion policies including the report of the national task force on obesity, which was launched in May 2005. The Department is considering how this approach could be advanced. Additional funding of €3 million has been made available to the Health Service Executive to support the implementation of the report's recommendations. The population health unit, National Hospitals Office and the primary, community and continuing care directorates are planning in an integrated manner to ensure best allocation of this funding in targeting obesity according to the recommendations of the task force report.

A proposal from the directorates is being forwarded to the strategic planning and reform innovation unit for approval. The proposal will build on developments to date and will include initiatives in the following areas: expansion of nutrition health education programmes in disadvantaged areas; the appointment of physical activity co-ordinators to promote physical activity and exercise programmes; the appointment of specialist community dieticians to support weight management and health promotion programmes; the development of a national training programme for key health professionals in methods to address obesity and excess weight; programmes with the food sector to ensure the availability of healthy food choices; work on the surveillance and monitoring of obesity; and further development of clinical obesity services.