Hot school meals programme extended to 15 more Offaly schools

The Hot School Meals Programme has been extended to a further 15 schools across Offaly.

This is part of a wider nationwide expansion involving 713 new schools, bringing the total number of participating schools to 2,850 and benefitting over 475,000 children.

John Clendennen TD has warmly welcomed the announcement by Minister for Social Protection, Dara Calleary TD.

"This is a fantastic day for the pupils, parents, and staff of these 15 schools across Offaly. Providing children with a hot, nutritious meal each day helps support concentration, classroom engagement, and overall well being.

"This programme is delivering real, tangible benefits in schools across the country, and I’m proud to see it growing here in Offaly.”

The schools added to the scheme include: S N Seosamh, Geashill NS, Seir Kierans NS, St Cronans Mixed NS, Ceann Eitigh NS, SN Naomh Callin, SN Chairain Naofa, SN Sheosaimh Naofa, SN Chairain Naofa (17753U), SN Peadar Agus Pol, St Rynaghs NS, SN Bhride, St Colmans NS, Coolderry Central NS, and Gaelscoil An Eiscir Riada.

The Hot School Meals Programme, originally piloted in just 30 schools, has grown significantly in recent years and is a key part of the Government’s effort to support educational equality.

The Minister also announced a review of the programme’s nutritional standards, with foods high in saturated fat, sugar, and salt set to be removed from menus starting September 2025.

Deputy Clendennen added: “It’s not just about making sure children don’t go hungry, it’s about ensuring what they’re eating supports their growth and learning.

"I fully support the Minister’s decision to strengthen nutritional guidelines and I know schools and parents across Offaly will welcome this.”

For more information on the Hot School Meals Programme, go to: www.gov.ie/HotSchoolMeals2025