Health Committee seeks views on tackling obesity

Individuals and organisations are being encouraged to respond to an inquiry into obesity. The inquiry is being carried out by the Assembly Health Committee to examine the current approach to tackling obesity and its impact on health and well-being.

As part of the inquiry the Committee will:

• assess the scope and appropriateness of the current approach to the prevention of obesity and the promotion of lifestyle change;
• examine the availability of weight management or other intervention services to tackle obesity related ill health; and
• consider what further action is required, taking account, as appropriate, of the potential to learn from experience elsewhere.

The Deputy Chairperson of the Committee, Michelle O’Neill MLA, said: “The Committee is acutely concerned at the rising levels of obesity in our society, especially among our young people. We are conscious that obesity is a very significant underlying factor in many patients who suffer from cardiac problems, respiratory illnesses, diabetes and other diseases. It has been estimated that 450 deaths each year are attributable to obesity and that it costs the local economy about £500 million a year. Through this inquiry the Committee wishes to ensure that everything possible is being done to bring about meaningful lifestyle changes and that effective services are in place to treat and support people with obesity related illnesses.”

The deadline for submission is 20 February 2009. Written evidence submitted to the Committee should be kept confidential until published by the Committee.

Notes to Editor:

Committee Membership:
Mrs Iris Robinson MP (DUP) (Chairperson); Ms Michelle O’Neill (SF) (Deputy Chairperson); Mr Thomas Buchanan (DUP); Dr Kieran Deeny (IHC); Mr Alex Easton (DUP); Mr Tommy Gallagher (SDLP); Mr Sam Gardiner (UUP); Mrs Carmel Hanna (SDLP); Mr John McCallister (UUP); Ms Claire McGill (SF); Ms Sue Ramsey (SF)

Media Enquiries to:
Debra Savage, Northern Ireland Assembly Information Office, Room B2, Parliament Buildings, Belfast BT4 3XX.