Public consultation on advertising to children begins

The Broadcasting Authority of Ireland is to launch a public consultation on the advertising of food and drink to children today.

Submissions made will be taken into consideration when the authority draws up new diet and nutrition guidelines for broadcasters.

Launching the public consultation today, the chairperson of the BAI, Bob Collins, said: “This is a very important review for the BAI and we are casting the net as wide as possible to secure a broad base of views.

“As well as industry groups, health organisations, groups that represent parents and children, advertisers and broadcasters, we are keen to receive input from members of the public.

“Any person with a view about how advertising of food and drink is promoted to children in the broadcast media is invited to be part of the consultation: you don’t necessarily need to be an expert.

“In approaching this review, we will give due regard to all responses received. We must also take into account public health concerns and ensure that – if there are changes to existing rules – they are proportionate and resilient.”

Once this initial public consultation is completed, all responses will be considered by the BAI.

If a clear requirement emerges to amend the existing rules on diet and nutrition, the BAI will produce a draft set of revised rules.

These will be put to a second public consultation to determine their final shape.