Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

My point is that just over two years, there were 30 schools in the programme, whereas 500 schools now get hot school meals, which is making a significant difference to children's lives. It is better for their educational attainment and, as the principal said, it makes such a difference to the children. I want to see it expanded because it is a great scheme.

I assure the Deputy the Government is totally committed to addressing the issue of child poverty. The Taoiseach has set up a special unit in his Department and by doing that, he can ensure all the Departments will feed into it. He and the Minister for Children, Disability, Equality, Integration and Youth have met some of the stakeholders to discuss the issues.

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