Olwyn Enright (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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Question 567: To ask the Minister for Education and Science her views on the introduction of a skills programme, which teach and develop training in basic food preparation and budgeting in schools; if she will develop and implement such a policy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3611/08]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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In the Home Economics curriculum at post-primary level, the concepts of 'Balanced Eating' and 'Healthy Exercise' underlie the Junior Cycle and Senior Cycle syllabi. These are addressed in the core content areas of Food Studies and Social and Health Studies at Junior Cycle.

At Senior Cycle, the issue of obesity is addressed within the areas of dietary and food requirements and the Irish diet. The study of obesity includes identifying risk factors, considering what it is, the inter-relationship of dietary excesses and diet related problems, how to prevent obesity and the corrective measures required. Menu planning and the food studies practical course work areas enable students to plan and prepare meals for the prevention and control of obesity. Home Economics in the post-primary curriculum promotes the current dietary guidelines from the National Nutrition Survey.

In addition to the curriculum itself, my Department participates in initiatives such as National Healthy Eating Week, which is promoted by the Department of Health and Children in co-operation with my Department and the Association of Teachers of Home Economics. It is a themed week during which activities to promote the concept of healthy eating to the whole school are organised and delivered through the medium of Home Economics including cookery demonstrations, projects, and displays.