Irish children are becoming more obese and creating serious health risks for the future, according to a major study released today.
The Government is to promote recreation and sport to combat the problem and may control the availability of fast food outlets near schools.
It will also consider the marketing and labelling of foods aimed at youngsters.
The four-year study was carried out on the eating and exercise habits of 8,500 nine-year-olds.
Among the key findings was the fact that obesity in Irish children is higher than many northern European countries, but similar to Great Britain.
It found 19% of them were overweight at age nine, with 26% of nine-year-olds "outside the healthy range" for their weight.
Girls were "significantly" more likely to have weight problems.
The study found that 22% of girls were overweight, compared to 19% of boys. Obesity levels were 8% in girls and 5% in boys.
The problem is most acute in working class areas, where 26% of children were overweight and obese.
Minister for Children Frances Fitzgerald, who launched the "Growing up in Ireland" report on obesity in children, said it presented "an appalling vista" for the future health of these young people.
She said a national play and recreation network was now being created to tackle it.
The report highlighted the fact that many children spend more time watching TV or playing computer games than engaging in exercise.
Minister for Health James Reilly said the Government was now looking at the marketing of fatty foods to children, labelling of certain products and calorie posting on restaurant menus.
The Government has said it may also consider planning laws that would limit the availability of fast food outlets near schools.
The research is following the development of 20,000 children.
