Thomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fail)
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168. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he is satisfied with the guidelines on healthy, tasty and nutritious foods in primary schools; and if he will consider issuing a circular banning vending machines stocking sugary drinks, crisps and chocolate from vending machines in schools. [23208/16]

Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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In the 2012 Lifeskills Survey, 99.7% of respondent primary schools reported that they do not facilitate the sale of fizzy drinks, sweets and crisps in school, either through vending machines or a school shop. The 2015 Lifeskills survey is currently being analysed, and the results will be available shortly.

It is not my intention to legislate on the issue of vending machines. 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.

Circular 0013/2016 on healthy lifestyles was developed in consultation with the Department of Health and the Health Service Executive. It aims to support and strengthen primary schools efforts in developing in young people the skills and attitudes needed to make informed decisions about their health.

All of the proactive work done in schools complements the Government's Framework for Improved Health and Wellbeing 2013 - 2025 - Healthy Ireland. Schools can do so much but it is through working together, across Government departments, through families and communities that we can create an environment in which our young people have the knowledge, skills and resilience to choose to lead a healthy life.