Government proposals will be vetted for their effect on health.
The Minister for Health and Children will chair a new National Health Promotion Forum.
Factors such as poverty and housing play a major role in health.
One third of adults are smokers.
About a quarter of adults drink more than the recommended weekly limits of sensible alcohol consumption.
A minority of adults exercise.
Irish children consume lots of fruit and vegetables - but also lots of sweets, bars and soft drinks.
