Ivor Callely (Dublin North Central, Fianna Fail)
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Question 47: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her Department's policy on people's fitness and exercise; the encouragement in place to encourage people to participate; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11817/07]

Seán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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My Department recognises the importance of physical activity in the prevention of illness such as cardiovascular disease and stroke. It is also recognised that lack of physical activity is contributing to increased levels of obesity. The Report of the National Taskforce on Obesity — Obesity the Policy Challenges — was published in 2005 and contained 93 recommendations aimed at tackling overweight and obesity. The Health Service Executive has established a Working Group to implement the health sector recommendations of the Taskforce on Obesity for which the HSE has the lead responsibility and for which €3 million has been allocated. In 2006 eight additional posts focused on obesity were secured and a number of new initiatives commenced and are continuing.

The HSE is working with the Community Games Association to integrate health promotion as a priority in their strategic plan. This plan addresses nutrition and physical activity as well as other key health promotion topics. The partnership with the Education Sector is progressing. The HSE has also developed a strategic alliance with the Irish Sports Council, and have part-funded the Local Sports Partnerships to promote physical activity.

The Taskforce recognises that a multi-sectoral approach is necessary, involving other state agencies and Departments and real engagement of the public and private sectors to implement all of the report's recommendations. My Department is currently finalising proposals for the development of a mechanism which will facilitate inter-sectoral working on the prevention of chronic diseases, including obesity. Promotion of healthy lifestyles, including physical activity, will be a key part of this approach.