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Department of Health
Thursday, 7 August 2025
Minister for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy, Jennifer Murnane O’Connor, has officially launched a nationwide public consultation to inform the development of Ireland’s next Obesity Policy and Action Plan.
The initiative invites input from individuals, families, healthcare professionals, community groups, and organisations to help shape a comprehensive and inclusive strategy to address obesity. Submissions will be reviewed and compiled into a report that will guide the drafting of the new national framework.
“Obesity is one of the most pressing public health challenges facing Ireland today, with over half of our adult population affected,” said Minister Murnane O’Connor. “This is not just a personal health issue—it’s a national concern that impacts our healthcare system, our communities, and our future.”
She noted that while the current strategy has helped stabilise obesity rates and implement key interventions, further action is needed. The consultation aims to ensure that the next phase is informed by the lived experiences and expertise of those it seeks to support.
Ireland’s leadership in obesity prevention has earned international recognition. At the 2023 European Congress on Obesity in Dublin, the World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe (WHO-Euro) launched its integrated service delivery framework for obesity management, citing Ireland’s model of care as a benchmark for scalable and effective solutions.
The public consultation will remain open until 18 September 2025. For more information and to participate, visit [gov.ie link].
