The ‘Food and Drink Industry of Ireland’ group believes a so-called ‘fat-tax’ will not tackle the problem of obesity here.

The government is considering the introduction of a tax on sugary drinks and high-fat foods such as chips, pizza and meat.

It is hoped the levy would reduce the number of overweight people in Ireland and generate some much needed revenue for the exchequer.

But FDII Director Paul Kelly does not believe a ‘fat-tax’ is the right approach: