Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 June 2019
859. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection her views on a matter regarding school meals (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24144/19]
View answerAs part of Budget 2019, it was announced that DEASP would commence a pilot scheme from September 2019, providing Hot School Meals in 36 primary schools for an estimated 7,200 children at a cost of €1m for 2019 and €2.5m in 2020.
All 3,239 primary schools have been issued with an invitation to submit an expression of interest to participate in the pilot. An expression of interest has been received from Muire na Mainistreach Primary School. All expressions of interest received will be considered and 36 schools will be selected to participate in the pilot. All schools who submit an expression of interest to participate in the pilot will be contacted in the coming weeks.
The selection of schools will be random, but will give regard to geographical spread, numbers enrolled, range of suppliers and the overall budget available for the pilot in 2019 and 2020 (€1m and €2.5 respectively).
