Fitness plan for workers launched

TO help keep their 3,500 Limerick workers fit and trim, giant computer manufacturer, Dell has opened three designated walking routes at Raheen industrial park where the plant is located.

The walks take on average 10, 15 and 20 minutes to complete at a brisk pace.

And the company has launched a healthy eating programme with special offers on healthy snacks and fruit in the vast canteen.

A spokesperson for Dell said: “To reflect the diversity of the employees on site, regular International Days take place in the canteens. These include a Polish day, a Canada day, a South Africa day, an Italian day and special promotions are run on July 4 to mark this large annual American holiday.”

Meanwhile academic leaders at the University of Limerick believe that like the soldiers in Napoleon’s army, students must eat well to help win their battle with testing courses.

And to this end a unique study is being carried out to look into the eating habits of the 11,000 students and staff who dine on campus.

The investigation called Market-PLAN has been developed by one of the world’s largest food companies, ARAMARK.

Director of Plassey campus life services, Linda Stevens said: “Every day thousands of people eat in our restaurants on campus. Eating habits and lifestyles are changing and we need to identify emerging trends so that our restaurants and cafes meet the needs of those socialising and eating in them every day.

“Ultimately MarketPLAN will link campus lifestyle needs with customised food solutions which will yield enhance services and greater customer satisfaction.”

As part of the study, thousands of people in the university will be interviewed to gather as much information about their diet and food requirements on campus.