Senator says school meals scheme should 'deliver investment for farmers'
A senator has called for the hot school meals programme to be expanded to "deliver investment for Irish farmers".
Senator Victor Boyhan has emphasised that the programme "must use food sourced locally".
This follows a recent report recommending that it be rolled out to all post‑primary schools as an urgent national priority.
The Oireachtas Joint Committee on Education and Youth published its report this month evaluating the impacts of the programme.
Recommendations in the report include that "local producers should be strongly supported by the School Meals Programme, insofar as is practicable, with priority given to organic produce".
'Boost rural economy'
Senator Boyhan, who sits on the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Agriculture and Food, said the findings of the report "provide a great opportunity to boost the rural economy and benefit children nationwide".
"Using produce that are in season and sourced locally is the best way to provide quality meals and cut costs," the senator said.
"Pre‑approved suppliers for the programme should be provided on a county basis to reduce the burden on principals.
"As parents struggle with rising costs, local farmers and agri‑food businesses can provide relief.
"Any money spent on this will go back into rural communities."
The senator said that should be factored into "any report or discussion about value for money".
"This policy is common sense and will be a win for everyone involved," he added.
School Meals Programme
Key recommendations in the report included that small rural schools "must be supported to ensure that the School Meals Programme is fully operational in those schools".
The Joint Committee on Education and Youth chairperson, Cathal Crowe said in the report: "As the programme continues to expand, it is important that its delivery arrangements keep pace with its scale and ambition.
"Issues relating to procurement, school infrastructure, nutritional standards and programme governance must therefore be addressed in a structured and future-proofed way."
He added that ensuring all students have access to nutritious meals during the school day "can make a meaningful difference to their mental and physical health, learning and overall educational experience".
