SDLP Assembly Member for Newry and Armagh Justin McNulty MLA has said more must be done to increase physical activity in school-aged children following the publication of research by the Education Committee at Stormont.
Mr McNulty explained, ’The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends 60 minutes of physical activity a day for children and yet the latest statistics available here suggest that only 13% children had an hour of physical activity every day. This is an appalling indictment of our treatment of children and will have serious consequences for many years to come if not tackled.’
‘This is not all about sport, it is about good physical health and wellbeing. It’s about improving children’s resilience, wellbeing and self-esteem, as well as reducing anxiety and depression. Covid saw schools closed, children’s play facilities and sports grounds shut and as we emerge from lockdowns we must have a strategic plan to tackle what I fear will be a pandemic in years to come if not tackled.’
‘Children need to be children, they need to get out, play and enjoy themselves. It builds good health and wellbeing, it’s positive for socialization and character development and leads to good fitness habits for life. To properly set children up for life this abject under focus on children’s health and fitness in schools must be addressed. I have asked our Education Minister to bring forward a plan of action to ensure children get more physical activity each and every day as part of the school day. This must be addressed as a priority, it is every bit as important as educational attainment if we are to build healthier happier communities for the future.
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CLANRYE NEWS 