Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 October 2025
312. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Health if he will engage with Coimisiún na Meán in relation to implementing the international code of marketing of breastmilk substitutes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54358/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraCoimisiún na Meán was established in March 2023 further to the provisions of the Online Safety and Media Regulation Act 2022 (“OSMR Act 2022”). The OSMR Act 2022 amended the Broadcasting Act 2009 to establish Coimisiún na Meán and dissolve the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (“BAI”).
In addition to undertaking the functions of the BAI as the regulator for broadcasting in Ireland, Coimisiún na Meán is to establish a regulatory framework for online safety, update the regulation of television broadcasting and audiovisual on-demand services, and transpose the revised Audiovisual Media Services Directive into Irish law.
The Health & Wellbeing Unit in the Department of Health have engaged regularly with An Coimisiún regarding restricting the advertising of infant formula, including follow-on formula. The Department has made two submissions as part of the Interdepartmental Working focused on the restriction of marketing of foods high in fat, salt and sugar and follow on infant formula. The public consultations were held by Coimisiún na Meán in January and December 2024. Coimisiún na Meán have indicated that the restriction of advertisement of infant formula and breastmilk substitutes is included in their work plan for the future and the Department expects to be involved in further discussions around this area in due course
