Paul Donnelly
Ceist:837. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Social Protection when the rates payable under the school meals programme were last increased. [11599/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 17 February 2026
Ceisteanna (837)
Freagraí scríofa
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.
The rates of payment were last increased in 2023. The budget for the School Meals Programme for 2026 is €286m.
Any additional measures to increase the rates would have to be considered in a budgetary context.
I trust this clarifies the matter.