Written answers

Wednesday, 17 September 2014

Department of Education and Skills

School Equipment

Photo of Jonathan O'BrienJonathan O'Brien (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
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1371. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the number of schools that have vending machines in operation; the amount of revenue received by each of these schools for each vending machine; her plans to introduce legislation to ban unhealthy foods being stocked in vending machines in schools or ban the use of vending machines altogether. [33914/14]

Photo of Jonathan O'BrienJonathan O'Brien (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
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1377. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the engagement she has had with companies regarding the sale of fizzy drinks and use of vending machines in schools; the names of the companies she has met with; and the number of times she has met with them. [33940/14]

Photo of Jan O'SullivanJan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 1371 and 1377 together.

The results of the 2012 Lifeskills survey, which were published by my Department in February 2014, indicated that approximately 30% of post primary schools have vending machines or school shops which sell fizzy drinks, sweets and crisps. This figure was down from 35% in the 2009 survey.

The income generated by vending machines is a matter for the relevant schools and the suppliers.

It is not my intention to legislate on this issue. In the first instance, as Minister for Education and Skills I do not have the authority to dictate to schools in this manner. Schools are generally privately managed institutions which, although largely funded by the State, are relatively autonomous.

In addition, I do not want to dictate to young people in relation to what they can and cannot eat. The education system provides students with appropriate knowledge and skills in relation to issues such as healthy eating, the importance of a balanced diet and an active lifestyle. This is done through Social, Personal and Health Education, Home Economics and Physical Education.We want to ensure that schools offer students healthy alternatives so that can they put their knowledge into practice and choose in an informed way.

It is my intention to issue guidance to schools on promoting well-being among their students. The promotion of 'healthy vending' will form part of this guidance. The guidance is being developed in consultation with the Department of Health and the HSE.

It is not just about getting rid of junk food but it requires us to look at the totality of the health and well-being of our young people. We give them the knowledge, skills and attitudes to develop positive practices for their lives today and into the future so that they can be healthy and have positive mental attitudes to life. It is expected that the guidance on promoting well-being and healthy eating will issue to schools this autumn.

I have had no engagement with companies in relation to the sale of food and beverage products in schools.

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