Submission to the Northern Ireland Assembly Committee for Health, Social Services and Public Safety: Committee Inquiry into Obesity

Abstract

IPH Chief Executive, Dr Jane Wilde gave evidence to the Northern Ireland Assembly Health Committee inquiry into obesity.

Dr Wilde recommended the following:

- Supporting the Department of Health’s strategic approach based on an understanding of the nature and complexity of obesity. - Urgent and short term action to coordinate current activities and ensure focus on the most vulnerable. - Exploring new forms and incentives to promote cross departmental work. - Setting intermediate outcomes and targets = Building stronger links between research, policy and practice, for example asking the Health Committee to set up a round table of researchers and policy makers - Working systematically and transparently to identify key areas for cooperation with UK, Ireland and Europe

Drawing from IPH work and other research, Dr Wilde briefed the Health Committee on the extent and impact of obesity, reasons for rising levels of obesity and the need for a stronger strategic response. She highlighted the importance of cross government action, the responsibilities of those beyond the health sector and the need for stronger evidence-informed policy and practice.