Hot School Meals programme expanded in Mayo

AN additional 21 Mayo schools have been approved for the Hot School Meals programme.

The programme, which began in 2019, allows primary school children to avail of a subsidised hot meal during school time. It now been expanded to over 2,800 schools around the country, with 475,000 school children now eligible.

The 21 schools in Mayo who are now included in the programme are: Burriscarra NS, Carnacon, St Feichin NS, Cross, Meelickmore NS, Swinford, Craggagh NS, Balla, Tavneena NS, Charlestown, Beacan NS, Claremorris, Mayo Abbey NS, The Quay NS, Ballina, Shrule NS, Drummin NS, Westport, Balla NS, Taugheen NS, Manulla NS, St Attracta’s NS, Charlestown, Errew NS, Castlebar, Cloonliffen NS, Ballinrobe, Ballyvary Central NS, Barnacarroll Central NS, St Joseph’s NS, Kilmaine, St Joseph’s NS, Ballinrobe and St Mary’s NS, Partry.

Minister of State Alan Dillon TD welcomed the expansion of the programme, stating: “A hot school meal does wonders for our children in terms of their physical and mental health, as well as their educational output. It makes them happier and more productive, while also giving parents peace of mind that their children are being fed while at school.”

The Hot School Meals programme has a budget of over €300 million, with pre-packaged meals subsidised at €3.20 per portion.

The programme has attracted criticism from some public health experts and teachers over the level of waste generated by the scheme, as well as the poor nutritional content of the meals being provided by some food providers.