Written answers

Thursday, 19 October 2006

Department of Health and Children

Obesity Levels

5:00 pm

Paudge Connolly (Cavan-Monaghan, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 176: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her proposals to address the rising obesity levels among children, as evidenced in the results of the October 2006 European Commission public consultation on prevention of overweight, obesity and chronic diseases, which revealed that over three million of 14 million overweight children in Europe are obese; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33764/06]

Photo of Seán PowerSeán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Obesity is a major public health problem both for Ireland and for our European neighbours. It is estimated that over 300,000 children on the island of Ireland are overweight and obese. The National Taskforce on Obesity published a report in 2005 containing 93 recommendations to halt the rise in levels of overweight and obesity.

The Taskforce recognises that a multi-sectoral approach is necessary, involving other state agencies and government departments and real engagement of the public and private sectors to implement all of the report's recommendations. It is proposed to utilise social inclusion structures already established as well as other working groups as required to facilitate this.

I understand that the Health Service Executive has established a Working Group to implement those recommendations of the Task Force on Obesity for which the HSE has the lead responsibility and for which €3 million has been allocated. It is currently undertaking an audit of existing services to reduce and prevent obesity, to identify gaps in current service provision and to make recommendations for future service provision. It has already commenced a number of new initiatives and has secured 8 additional posts this year focused on obesity.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.