Personal good health is the single most important concern of most people. Its loss can be traumatic and affect not just individuals, but families and entire communities. No amount of wealth can compensate for it. Because of that, the two most immediate threats to the health and welfare of our society - obesity and alcohol abuse - require determined and tightly-focused Government action.
It will not be easy. The food and drinks industries and their various outlets are highly organised and profitable. In the past, companies resisted official intervention and direction. Increased profitability was their driving force. Now, as an obesity epidemic threatens, food companies have an ethical duty to review the composition and marketing of their products. The drinks industry has a similar responsibility and should also co-operate in addressing under-aged drinking and alcohol abuse.
Limited progress has been made. Consumer demand for specific labelling, which gives the salt, sugar and fat content of prepared foods, is being met. But the information is not particularly user-friendly. And a premium is generally charged for healthier products. An excessive intake of sugar and fat is placing a growing number of young people at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, with potentially huge public health costs. Alcohol abuse and under-aged drinking threaten similar outcomes.
Minister for Justice Brian Lenihan has established yet another expert group to report on alcohol abuse. He spoke of restricting the sale of alcohol from off-licences and garage forecourts to persons over 21 years. Such an approach may grab headlines but it is unlikely to have much effect. Far better that Mr Lenihan should revisit the Intoxicating Liquor Act of 2000 which contains a provision for identifying the point-of-sale of alcohol. Following intensive lobbying by the drinks trade, the ministerial order required to bring that provision into operation was never signed. If the Garda could positively identify the illegal point-of-sale of alcohol to young people, it could take more effective action. Enforcement is the key to changing public behaviour.
There is a direct linkage between poverty and poor health. For young people, diet and exercise are hugely important if they are to avoid becoming obese. But the State should do more in providing for their needs at school, through education and physical training. The food and drinks industries also have a responsibility not to damage the health of society. If that outcome can be achieved through enlightened self-interest and co-operation, so much the better.