Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I appreciate the Deputy raising this issue, which will be raised by others during oral questions. The Deputy is correct that the announcement was made for the 2023-24 school year. I am pleased to confirm that we will be launching the first phase of the programme in the coming weeks. A significant amount of work had to be undertaken and not just by our own Department. The scheme is being supported by the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications. A considerable body of work had to be done between the two Departments as to how best to roll out the scheme. I am pleased to be able to confirm to the Deputy that in the coming weeks, the first phase of the scheme will be launched.

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