Secondary school pupils might be able to take PE as a Leaving Certificate subject if the Labour party's proposals are accepted.

Labour's new policy document A Level Playing Field stated that each educational facility should give students two hours of PE lessons every week.

PE should also be available on the Leaving Certificate curriculum, allowing students to gain points towards higher education entry levels, the party suggested.

Labour's spokeswoman on sport Mary Upton said that this would help encourage sport and activities among young people.

She added that while 725 million euros had been spent on the sports' capital programme, more money should be ploughed into physical education facilities in Irish schools.

Fitness and obesity consultant Elaine Sawetz reiterated the importance to engage in physical activities.

She said that through sport, "children are less likely to develop diabetes or other diseases".

Written by Donal Walsh

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