Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 December 2025
625. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason a school in Cork (details supplied) is experiencing a delay in having their school meals rolled out; if the timeline will be reviewed considering that the school is one of the only ones in the area without a school hot meal in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [71722/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 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.
The primary relationship is between the school and supplier. All schools who wish to avail of funding under the programme are responsible for choosing their schools meals 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.
Riverstown National School have confirmed they have started their procurement process to obtain a school meals supplier. Once this is concluded and they have selected a supplier they will then submit their application to my Department for Hot School Meals funding. The school principal and school board of management will decide a start date for the Hot School Meals Programme that best meets the needs in their school. Schools apply annually for School Meals Funding.
I trust this clarifies the matter.
