PN calls for interministerial approach to Malta’s obesity problem

Private members bill to fight obesity • Video Ray Attard

The Nationalist Party is putting forward a number of proposals to help fight the increasing rate of obesity among the Maltese population.

Obesity costs the country’s coffers €20 million annually and the Opposition is suggesting the setting up of a consultative council with the aim of pushing forward suggestions on health issues, physical activity, policies and so forth.

The private members bill, pushed by MP Robert Cutajar, was presented today to Speaker Anglu Farrugia.

In comments to the press, PN deputy leader Mario de Marco said the bill proposes the setting up of a consultative council that would, among others, establish the list of healthy foods that should be eaten, define the role of local councils and how day care centres can improve their operations to promote a healthy lifestyle.

“There appears to be unanimous agreement that the fight against obesity should be a national issue. First indications are that parliamentary secretary Chris Agius is agreeing with the idea behind this Bill,” Cutajar added.

The Opposition is also proposing for local councils to allocate an amount of money to promote an active lifestyle.

“Why shouldn’t every locality have an open air gym?” Cutajar said.

Praising the Opposition for the initiative, Speaker Anglu Farrugia said it will be his responsibility to see that the private members bill is discussed in the House Business Committee.

What the Bill says

The private members bill, Act on a Healthy Lifestyle (to reduce obesity), establishes an interministerial approach to promote physical education and healthy and balanced diets with the aim of reducing the level obesity among all age groups.

The Bill proposes the setting up of a consultative council on a healthy lifestyle whose members – among others – would include representatives of the OPM, public health, education services, Police, nutrition expert and social services.

The consultative council would put forward proposals on matters relating to health, physical activity and nutrition and suggest action plans and regulations to reduce obesity.

The council would also give advice to the Ministry for Education, the Ministry for Home Affairs, the Ministry responsible of local councils and encourage an interministerial approach.

The Bill calls for courses for parents to promote a healthy lifestyle and what type of food should be allowed in schools and nearby outlets.

The Bill establishes fines at a minimum of €500 and not exceeding €2,500.