Minister Killeen Pledges Support For EU Proposal To Distribute Fruit In Schools

The proposal is modelled on Ireland’s very successful "food dudes" scheme, which encourages primary schoolchildren to taste and enjoy fruit and vegetables. The national scheme is expected to reach 1,000 primary schools by the end of the year.

According to Minister Killeen, "At the Council of Ministers meeting this week in Luxembourg, Brendan Smith TD, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, pledged his support for the Commission proposal to establish the European wide initiative. Ireland is especially pleased with the proposed scheme as it is modelled on our very successful ‘food dudes’ healthy eating programme, which greatly increases the quantity and range of fruit and vegetables that children consume as part of their regular diet."

The Clare T.D. explained that Ireland’s policies have consistently supported balanced diets.

"To date Ireland’s existing national scheme has been very positive. There is great merit in undertaking a measure at EU level that will encourage healthy eating by our children as it addresses a real and urgent problem of growing obesity in our society", he added.

-ENDS-

Notes to Editor:
- For further information please contact Mark Dunphy of Dunphy Public Relations on 00353868534900 or media@dunphypr.com
- High-resolution images of Minister Killeen are available on request

Mark Dunphy
Dunphy Public Relations
www.dunphypr.com
media@dunphypr.com
00353-868534900