War on obesity

OBESITY rates are increasing at such a speed that a report, published today, will recommend a tripling in the number of obesity clinics, banning fizzy drink and sweet machines in schools and a massive drive to hire more dieticians.

It will also call for an increase in VAT on takeaway meals, fast foods and other convenience foods - many of which have a lower VAT rate or a nil VAT rate.

The National Taskforce on Obesity Report is due to be published by the Taoiseach this afternoon and in a move that shows its importance, Bertie Ahern’s department will be charged with turning the recommendations into policy.

Obesity is already costing the State €370 million a year and the former EU Health and Consumer Protection Commissioner, David Byrne has warned that unless the global epidemic is tackled, “healthcare spending could go through the roof”.

Research estimates that one-in-five men are obese and that nearly 40% of Irish adults are overweight.

The Obesity Taskforce will recommend:

* Ending the ‘supersize’ culture where fast foods can be bought in extra large portions.

* A reduction in VAT on healthier foods and drinks like bottled water.

* Increasing PE in primary schools from one to two hours and the introduction of daily activity sessions.

* A European-wide ban on advertising junk food to children.

* An end to fast food sponsorship of children’s events.

* A national nutrition policy in school tuck shops

* Discussions with the insurance industry to end ‘no run’ policies in school playgrounds.

* An increased emphasis on exercise and play areas in town planning.

In a separate development, the Health Department has sanctioned the nationwide expansion of a cut-price gym scheme for those with lifestyle-related illnesses.

The GP Referral Scheme was piloted in the Health Service Executive (Southern Area). The 12-week programme offers cut-price leisure facilities and expert advice. The service is free to medical card holders.

“Obesity is a normal reaction to an abnormal environment and people need to realise that we have to drastically change our environment,” a taskforce member said.

One of the catchphrases used in the report is the term, ‘joined-up government’ as it recommends cooperation between several departments including Health, Education, Agriculture and Environment.