Reilly examines possibility of tax on fizzy drinks
The Health Minister James Reilly is going to have to be courageous in the face of Ireland's obesity problem, according to a weight management expert.
The comments come as a new report recommends raising the excise duty on fizzy drinks.
The Department of Health's obesity committee is set to examine the report later today.
The director of the Weight Management Clinic at St Colmcille's Hospital in Loughlinstown, Dublin, Donal O'Shea has said Dr Reilly has a tough task ahead, but the effort will be worthwhile.
Mr O'Shea said: "The World Health Organisation has said try and tackle this issue along with the physical activity, along with the high-fat foods.
"So I think we have to look at it, the minister will have to convince the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Finance and the Department of Enterprise that it is worth doing and looking at.
"It is a big job, but he is passionate in his championing of the obesity problem."
