Children & Youth Affairs Committee to discuss childhood obesity

The Joint Committee will hear from Representatives of the W82GO Healthy Lifestyles Service, Temple St Children’s University Hospital. The Committee will hear from:

•    Dr. Grace O'Malley, MDT Clinical Lead of W82GO Weight Management Service;
•    Dr. Sarah McGuire, Senior Clinical Psychologist, W82GO Weight Management Service;
•    Nicola Sheridan, Clinical Specialist Phyisiotherapist in Paediatrics, W82GO Weight Management Service; and
•    Roisin Thurstan, Clinical Service Coordinator, W82GO Weight Management Service.

Speaking in advance of the meeting, Committee Chair, Alan Farrell TD, said, “The W82GO Healthy Lifestyles Service was established in 2005 in response to the increasing health problems associated with childhood obesity. It aims to help families foster a lifestyle that promotes healthy living and help children maintain a healthy weight. International evidence generally points to a higher level of overweight and obesity in children from lower socio-economic backgrounds – this will be a key area of interest for the Committee. Families are also exposed on a daily basis to intense marketing of cheap, high-calorie and sugar-laden food products and drinks aimed at children. Issues like the affordability of healthy foods and the promotion of physical activity and exercise are likely to be discussed. The Committee will be keen to engage with the witnesses on what can be done by the State to lower the levels of childhood obesity in Ireland.”

Watch the meeting live here