Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I would make the case that providing a free hot meal to a child in a DEIS school is real change. This Government has expanded the DEIS programme by the single largest amount ever, to include more than 300 schools. It is the right thing to do. Deputies have all issued press releases with the details of what schools in their constituencies were given DEIS band 1 and band 2 status in recent months, because they know the value of it and the benefits afforded to schools by being given DEIS status. They are given DEIS status because it is warranted. They accommodate children from communities which, in many instances, are disadvantaged, suffer from social deprivation and need extra help. This Government expanded the number of pupils in our school system who will get a free hot meal every day by 60,000. It is an important intervention that represents real change and makes a real difference to the lives of children and parents. We make the case that that is a radical intervention by the Government.

Similarly, school transport is provided for free to those who qualify. All ticket holders availing of the school transport scheme will not face any charge for the 2022-23 school year. In rural Ireland in particular, in the absence of a school transport scheme, parents could face a long commute when fuel costs are high to get their children to and from school. This measure will make a real difference for many families, providing up to €500. It can be spread between two payments, in July and November, but many parents try to pay it in July to get it done. They will not have to do so now.

We are changing the back-to-school clothing and footwear allowance. We acknowledge that it will not go far enough for many, but it is a genuine effort by the Government to help and to make a difference. It comes on the back of all the other initiatives that we have taken since the last budget to address the cost-of-living crisis, which is not a crisis for everyone, but for many. We have been advised time and again that when we make interventions, they should be targeted at those who need it the most. I do not think anyone can argue that those who qualify for the back-to-school allowance are not those who need it the most. We are giving them extra help. In the budget, we expanded the eligibility criteria, especially for single parents, who will now have the same income test as a couple who are applying for the back-to-school allowance.

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