Board opposes a McDonald's for Ennis over health factors
The Mid-Western Health Board has formally objected to a new McDonald's outlet planned for Ennis, citing concerns about the possible effects on children's health, writes Gordon Deegan
The board argues that official health policy is to reduce obesity in Ireland but "the aim of health promotion appears untenable when faced with the millions of dollars being spent by McDonald's on child-targeted advertising".
In response, McDonald's said yesterday that it "has always advocated the benefits of a balanced diet. The essence of a good diet is based on balance, variety, moderation and physical activity".
The drive-through outlet planned for the Co Clare town will be the fast-food chain's 69th outlet in the State if permission is granted.
Before Ennis Town Council consider the application the board's health promotion unit has insisted that McDonald's prepare an Environmental Impact Statement to determine what effect the restaurant will have on the health of children in the Ennis area.
The board says it would "welcome the support of Ennis Town Council to protect the health of our children and our children's children".
A decision is due on the application later this month.
The objection, lodged on behalf of the health board by community dieticians Dr Anne Griffin and Ms Audrey Lyons states: "Whatever the short-term financial benefits might be, we cannot put a price on our children's health."
It says the Department of Health and Children is seeking a reduction of 10 per cent in obesity in Ireland by 2005."Despite this, the prevalence of obesity has increased among adults by 67 per cent over 10 years.
"The aim of health promotion appears untenable when faced with the millions of dollars being spent by McDonald's on child-targeted advertising." The dieticians say that "evidence is accumulating from the scientific literature that clearly defines the link between low-cost, energy dense foods, such as those advertised in the McDonald's eurosaver campaigns and obesity".
McDonald's said its products "consist of high quality ingredients that can make up a healthy part of a well-balanced, varied diet.
"Our menu is made up of 100 per cent Irish beef, poultry, fish, bread, vegetables and dairy products, in other words food from our four basic food groups containing many essential vitamins, minerals and other nutrients, or the basics you use to prepare your meals at home."
