Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 January 2026
1598. Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Social Protection if he has been made aware of the challenges schools with fewer than 75 pupils face in securing school lunch providers (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2202/26]
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 programme is designed so that meals are provided by contracted food business operators. This ensures responsibility for food safety and legislative compliance is placed on these professional providers and not on the schools themselves. This also ensures children benefit from a reliable, high-quality service, while schools are protected from having to take on responsibilities more appropriate to the providers, who will have the necessary expertise and experience in food provision.
The recent refinements to the procurement system, which underpins the programme, strengthens it by ensuring consistent standards across all participating schools. They also reflect the combined input of several Government Departments and State agencies, ensuring that schools and providers operate safely and compliantly across areas such as food safety, health and safety, fire safety, and building regulations.
No new legislation has been introduced or application of the law changed.
Some 89% of primary schools with fewer than 50 pupils who participated in the School Meal Programme in 2024/2025 academic year received a hot school meal.
My officials in this Department have been working with officials in the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht and they have compiled a list of supports available to local community organisations who may wish to expand their operation into the school meals area. This information has been supplied to some rural schools and a range of other community organisations. This can be obtained from my department. Schools can also engage with local café, restaurants, local suppliers, and meals on wheels services etc.
Should any school wish to contact my Department directly to discuss the options available to them, they can do so by contacting [school.meals@welfare.ie] or 071 9138625.
I trust this clarifies the matter.
