Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 December 2025
626. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Social Protection if his Department has received any complaints from schools or parents in relation to the hot school meals programme; the approximate number of complaints received; if he will provide a general summary of the concerns and issues raised; if specific concerns have been raised in relation to the nutritional value of meals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [71741/25]
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.
In 2023, this Department published an independent evidence-based Evaluation of the School Meals Programme which sets out the positive impact the Programme is having in terms of children’s education and wellbeing. The report sets out the positive impact the Programme is having in terms of children’s education and wellbeing.
Of the respondent parents surveyed 83.44% agreed that the programme was positive. Similarly, 83.12% wanted the School Meals Programme extended to all schools, with a further 81.9% supporting the universal provision of hot meals.
Complaints can be submitted to my Department in a number of ways. Through phone calls, emails and written correspondence directly to the School Meals Unit, submit feedback through my departments website and through public representatives. I am also aware of feedback through media reports. While it is not possible to provide a definitive figure for complaints on school meals, the number is low compared to the volume of meals produced on a weekly basis.
Feedback for the School Meals Scheme has been overwhelmingly positive; however, as the Programme for Government highlights, we will continue to ensure that suppliers adhere to robust guidelines on the nutritional value of meals, the dietary requirements of students, reduce food waste and utilise recyclable packaging.
I trust this clarified the matter.
