This snapshot presents strengths and weaknesses of national physical activity policy actions in Ireland. Compare Ireland with other European countries in our MOVING policy index.
Ireland implements policy actions in all 6 areas of the MOVING framework. Three policy areas received a good assessment: initiatives that promote physical activity in schools, community and recreation (M), physical activity opportunities in the workplace and training (O), and increasing physical activity through public communication which builds behaviour change skills (N).
Although policy areas M, O and N received a good assessment, weaknesses were identified in physical activity in schools and outside of school hours (M), training for professions outside of healthcare (O), active design guidelines for open and green spaces (V), and physical activity guidelines and public awareness campaigns promoting physical activity (N).
Much more needs to be done to improve all areas of structures and surroundings which promote physical activity (V), transport infrastructures which promote active societies (I), in addition to strengthening physical activity training within healthcare and outpatient settings (G), where a fair assessment was achieved. National government action and good policy design in areas V and I is key to improving overall environments that enable physical activity.
Download a full analysis and breakdown of Ireland’s results
This country snapshot presents detailed results of the MOVING policy index for Ireland. Full index results are outlined in the MOVING policy brief (pdf), which compares Ireland with other European countries and explains the methods for producing this snapshot and the index.
The index assesses if national government policy actions exist across all areas of the MOVING framework and, if so, how well designed they are. We produced this assessment by benchmarking policies from Ireland, collected through a comprehensive scan. You can view all benchmarked policies in our MOVING database.
We also have snapshots of nutrition policies in 30 European countries. Visit the Ireland page or see all the country snapshots.
The policy landscape in any country evolves over time. These findings reflect our knowledge as of May 2023. To provide feedback or suggest updates, please get in touch.
Fill in our feedback form or email the team policy@wcrf.org
