Anger boils over loss of hot school meals

The loss of the hot school meals for a number of small schools across North Tipperary is unacceptable and the blame lies squarely with the Government, Labour TD Alan Kelly declared this week.

“I’ve been inundated by these schools, their principals, their boards of management and indeed many parents who are really upset and annoyed about what has happened,” said Deputy Kelly.

“This is actually discriminatory against small schools such as Lackamore, Hollyford, Kilcommon, Drangan, Redwood, Lorrha, Donohill and Terryglass. Why are the needs of these students in these small schools not equal to the to those of students in larger schools?,” asked Deputy Kelly.

He added: “It is ridiculous what has happened. The new interdepartmental group from the government involving the Department of Education, Department of Social Protection, the School’s Procurement Unit and the Food Safety Authority has made a mess of this.

“The regulations brought in and issued as late as August 15 has basically made it impossible for any company to provide these hot meals as it simply wouldn’t be financially viable.

“The Lunch Bag, which employs hundreds of people in Nenagh, only charge €3.20 per student, and as these schools on average have approximately 20 students, this makes it worth €64 per day.

“The new regulations have changes when it comes to food safety and building regulations - however, the most serious is that they expect the supplier to pay a person to heat the meals. At €3.20 a student, this makes it unviable for any supplier to provide these hot meals given costs.”

O’ MEARA’S REACTION

Local Fianna Fáil TD and the party’s Spokesperson for Education, Ryan O’Meara, expressed concern over what he called “an unexpected disruption” in the provision of hot school meals for numerous small schools in North Tipperary.

“Many small schools in North Tipperary have been notified by a provider of hot school meals that they can no longer continue their service due to a change in regulations. This has caused significant disruption and concern among parents and school principals as the new school term begins. The provision of hot meals is a crucial part of the school day, ensuring that children receive the nutrition they need to focus and thrive academically.”

Deputy O’ Meara addedt hat he had been in direct contact with Minister Dara Calleary in relation to the provision of hot school meals for every school in the constituency.

“It is my priority that a solution is found as soon as possible. It is crucial that every child, regardless of school size, has the same access to nutritious school meals,” said Deputy O’ Meara.

“He said he had received “a huge number” of calls and emails from school principals and parents impacted by this sudden decision.

“I am aware of the stress and concern that many are feeling as a result of this. I am working closely with those impacted and officials within government to come to a solution as quickly as possible.”