The Government yesterday announced over €6 million for its primary and post-primary school meals programme, marking a significant expansion on 2003. Daniel McConnell reports.
The expanded programme was announced by the Minister for Social and Family Affairs, Ms Coughlan, who said that since its introduction it had made "an important contribution to ensuring that schoolchildren receive better nutrition, and has contributed to improved school attendance, quality of learning and life chances".
In 2003, just under €3.3 million was allocated for the fund, which benefited 28,300 children as part of 278 projects.
Funding is targeted at children who are at risk of leaving school early, disadvantaged children and children with special needs. Primary and secondary schools throughout the State can now apply for funding under the expanded scheme.
Ms Coughlan said last night: "This scheme has huge potential, and having worked with the Department of Education in prioritising schools with disadvantage, I expect that, with the additional funding I have now made available, the number of children benefiting will be substantially increased in the forthcoming school year."
A Government statement last night said that international experience had shown that a school meals scheme proved a positive force for children at school, and in areas of disadvantage helped children concentrate, consequently limiting disruptive behaviour, and encouraged children to attend school.
School managers wishing to put in place school meal facilities can apply to the fund.
It will be up to the schools to decide where the money would be best spent.
"Each school has its own requirements and facilities, and the scheme is flexible enough to respond to each school's individual needs," added Ms Coughlan.
The fund's expansion has been welcomed by the National Parents' Council, which said children must be given their proper daily nutrition requirement.
Ms Elanor Petrie, president of the organisation, last night told The Irish Times: "Of course we welcome the expansion. It is key that the funding gets to the areas and children who need it the most.
"We must ensure our children are getting the necessary balanced mix of food to ensure healthy growth."