Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 503: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if a code of practice in relation to the provision and content of vending machines in post-primary schools has been developed by his Department, food companies and school representative bodies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25915/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Schools are privately managed institutions which, although funded by the State, enjoy a large degree of autonomy. It is, therefore, primarily a matter for each school to devise guidelines relating to the type of food that is available on the school premises. Such policies should be driven by the needs and welfare of pupils. Many schools have developed healthy eating policies in co-operation with their parents' associations and I encourage others to do likewise.