Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 April 2026
44. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Social Protection the mechanisms in place when parents or students have problems with the quality, options or nutritional value of the food provided under the hot school meals programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29990/26]
View answerThe objective of the School Meals Programme is to provide regular, nutritious food to children to support them in taking full advantage of the education provided to them. The programme is an important component of policies to encourage school attendance and extra educational achievement.
In Budget 2025, it was announced that the Hot School Meals would be extended to all remaining primary schools in 2025, meaning that approximately 3,700 schools and 682,000 children are now eligible for school meals.
My department provides the funding for the meals directly to the school. The primary relationship is between the school and supplier. It is the responsibility of each school board to select a supplier on the open market, in a fair and transparent manner in accordance with public procurement rules. These rules clearly define the successful tenderer’s responsibilities and obligations, including in relation to compliance with Nutritional Standards for School Meals and Nutritional Standards for Hot School Meals.
Any concerns with the quality of the food should be brought to the attention of the Principal and/or Board of Management who manage the contract with their school meals supplier. The supplier should address the issues raised in line with the Hot School Meals nutritional guidelines.
I trust this clarifies the matter.
