School Meals Programme

Wednesday, 6 May 2026

Questions (555)

Cathy Bennett

Question:

555. Deputy Cathy Bennett asked the Minister for Social Protection when he plans to compile and publish a pre-approved list of suppliers for schools participating in the Hot School Meals Programme (details supplied); if he will ensure that, in developing these county-based supplier lists, priority is given to local suppliers using locally sourced produce, in order to support sustainable food systems, reduce food miles and strengthen local economies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31903/26]

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Written answers

Minister for Social Protection

The 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.

My department provides the funding for the meals directly to the school. All schools are responsible for choosing their school meals supplier on the open market, in a fair and transparent manner in accordance with public procurement rules.

The Schools Procurement Unit under the Department of Education and Youth, provides guidance to schools for all procurement matters including the School Meals Programme.

There are currently some 300 suppliers in the School Meals Programme, with the majority of these supplying one to three local schools.

An Interdepartmental Working Group will be looking at all of the recommendations in the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Education and Youth Report on the School Meals Programme.