Written answers

Tuesday, 30 June 2015

Photo of Finian McGrathFinian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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490. To ask the Minister for Health his views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding obesity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26426/15]

Photo of Leo VaradkarLeo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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In Ireland the level of obesity has doubled over the past 20 years. Currently two thirds of adults are overweight or obese and one in four children are overweight or obese. One in five adults are physically inactive and only 25 percent of children meet the guidelines on physical activity.

The Special Action Group on Obesity was established by the Minister for Health in 2011 and is working on a range of measures including:

- The development of revised Healthy Eating Guidelines

- Media campaigns to promote awareness on healthy eating

- Treatment Guidelines for overweight and obesity

- Calorie Posting in restaurants

- Developing a code of practice for marketing in the non-broadcast media

In addition, Ireland proposed the development of an EU Action Plan on Childhood Obesity and is now leading part of this work.

New Obesity Policy and Action Plan

In recognition of the obesity challenge, the Department has commenced work on an Obesity policy and Action Plan under the Healthy Ireland Framework. The plan will run from 2015 to 2025. It will include issues such as marketing of food and healthy eating guidelines.

A national consultation day was held in Farmleigh on April 27 involving approximately 150 key stakeholders with representation from Government Departments, County Councils, Industry, university departments and the education sector. Further consultation days are planned for children and healthcare professionals.

It is intended to develop an action plan not only for the health system but also to propose options for other sectors which play a key role in preventing overweight and obesity. This action plan will be finalised this year.

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