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Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 June 2026

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Thursday, 18 June 2026

Questions (98)

Louise O'Reilly

Question:

98. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Social Protection the plans to address rising rates of food poverty, particularly in relation to the continuation of lunch and breakfast programs for school-aged children through the summer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46281/26]

Written answers

Minister for Social Protection

In Budget 2025 it was announced that a Holiday Hunger Pilot Project between the Department of Social Protection’s School Meals Programme and Department of Education and Youth’s Summer Programme would be implemented during the summer of 2025. This pilot supported over 42,200 children most at risk of educational disadvantage.

I am pleased to advise that on Monday the 8th June I announced a extension of this pilot for 2026.

I trust this clarifies the matter.

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