Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 June 2026
80. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Social Protection whether there is a plan to assist schools who have been unable to source a supplier for hot school meals, being invariably smaller primary schools in rural area (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45630/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAll 3,200 primary schools and 550,000 children are eligible for hot school meals. Across all meal types there some 3,700 schools and 682,000 children are eligible for support. This equates to the distribution of up to 3.4 million school meals per week.
I am happy to say that Lettermullen National School commenced Hot School Meals last month. My Department have been in contact with the principal in Ballyconneely and will continue to offer support to them in finding a solution.
There are over 300 school meal providers delivering school meals across the country, they consist of a diverse group of organisations from the large national supplier, regional suppliers, to local restaurants and food outlets as well as meals on wheels. This includes local cafés, restaurants, caterers, meals on wheels services and community organisations registered as food business operators.
This Department has also worked with officials in the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht and compiled a list of supports available to local community organisations who may wish to expand their operation into the school meals area.
Tender proceedings for a proposed facility in Connemara are at an advanced stage and it is anticipated that a contractor will be appointed shortly. Upon completion, the facility will enable Connemara Catering to significantly expand its participation in the School Meals Programme across the region and assist the school in Ballyconneely.
I trust this clarifies the matter.
