Donna McGettigan (Clare, Sinn Fein)
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331. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if all special schools are part of the schools meals programme; if not, the names of special schools that are not part of the programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52799/25]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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The objective of the School Meals Programme is to provide regular, nutritious food to children to support them in taking full advantage of the education provided to them. The programme is an important component of policies to encourage school attendance and extra educational achievement.

All special schools are classified as non DEIS and primary schools. As announced in Budget 2025 all Primary Schools are entitled to the Hot School Meals Programme from September 2025. Some special schools have their own meals provision in place outside of the School Meals programme.

While all primary schools are eligible, the School Meals Programme is not mandatory for schools. The decision to apply lies with the school principal and board of management. I trust this clarifies the matter.