P.E.I. NDP leader calling for better meals, more physical activity in schools

As the school year fast approaches, NDP Leader Mike Redmondis calling on government to ensurethat Island kids get more physical activity and better cafeteria options to combat the "epidemic of obesity" on P.E.I.

• Obesity rates up 40 per cent on P.E.I.

"We are missing a valuable opportunity to influence the dietary needs of our children and physical activity of our children," Redmond said.

He added that it'snot all the responsibility of the Public Schools Branch or education system, but that"they must be the leaders in that field."

'Check all the boxes'

"If we want our children to learn, and learn well, then we need to make sure we check all the boxes," Redmondsaid.

He said those boxes include,being physically active and eating well both of which attribute to "being successful in the classroom."

He said government should consider the NDP's long proposed universal breakfast and lunch program and encourage local producers to get involved in feeding the schools.

"Use local farmers, fisherman, dairy producers you would create an economy there and create jobs. For every dollaryou spend on a child in health and wellness you're going to get that return of three-to-fourdollars," he said.

Criticizing government

Education is an investment, Redmond said.

"It's not a line item in a budget government has for too long said that," he added.

"This is a government that can find $65 millionfor a highway or a roundabout in North River but can't invest in our children that argument doesn't hold any water."

By the time of publication, the Department ofEducation, Early Learning and Culture hadnot responded to CBC's request for comment.

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