Kevin Humphreys (Dublin South East, Labour) | Oireachtas source

The Department of Social Protection always operates in an open and transparent manner and furnishes Deputies with the information they request. It is heartening that the Deputy has confirmed this in respect of the information provided for him by the Department.

The Government has been able to protect the funding provided for the school meals programme. In 2009 funding for the scheme stood at €35 million. This figure was increased to €37 million in 2007 and €39 million in 2015. As the Deputy indicated, it is important that this additional funding be distributed in an open and transparent manner. He will be aware from his time on the Government side of the House that while it is great to give something, it is much harder to take it away. The envelope of funding for 2015 is €39 million. I would like it to be increased and believe it will increase as the economy grows. I will discuss the issue with the Deputy. My officials and I will ensure the additional funding will be distributed in a fair and transparent manner. I will be more than happy to arrange a meeting with the Deputy to take a closer look at the matter.

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