Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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Question 48: To ask the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to criticisms of the diet of soldiers in the Army from a prominent nutritionist from the Irish Nutrition Centre, following publication of the Army's tender for supplies; his views on the need to transform dietary habits within the Defence Forces to ensure weight and fitness levels of members are appropriate for their work; the efforts he is making in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23789/06]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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The tender for the supply of foodstuffs is an estimation of requirements published to inform suppliers of the type and quantity of products that may be required on a particular running contract. The tender is not a reflection of the exact diet of members of the Defence Forces.

Efforts have been made over the past year by the Food Procurement Section of the Defence Forces to increase the variety of food products available to members of the Defence Forces through the Value Based Ration System. Considerable attention has been given to the addition of whole food products such as wholegrain bread, pasta and rice to running contracts. A 300% increase in the range/type of fruit and vegetable products available to Defence Forces personnel has also been brought about by allowing retailers to tender for a much larger variety of goods than had been the case in the past. These product areas were selected for attention, as these products are low in saturated fats and high in fibre, vitamins and minerals.

The Defence Forces are also committed to involvement in the Food Safety of Ireland salt reduction programme and are currently seeking low sodium alternatives to regular food products from suppliers. The fact remains that, due to the often strenuous nature of their work, the calorific energy requirement of the daily diet of Defence Forces personnel would be in excess of the 2,000 kcal — 2,500 kcal required by the sedentary population. The range of foodstuffs available ensures that these extra calorie needs can be met in a healthy manner.

All senior catering managers receive training on the requirement for a healthy diet, ensuring that personnel can avail of meals incorporating all of the major food groups with the correct proportions of carbohydrate, protein and fats. With regard to the weight and fitness levels of Defence Forces members, there is a requirement on all personnel to pass an annual fitness test. Physical training is an integral element of each unit's daily programme of training. Levels of fitness in the Defence Forces have improved greatly in recent years since this became a compulsory requirement.