Parents urged to have their say on school meals

Parents in Meath have been urged to have their say on Hot School Meals Programme.

Senator Linda Nelson Murray said the programme has been a major success with a nationwide rollout, but now is the time to build on that and improve it even further.

Senator Nelson Murray launched the survey today (Wednesday) and is asking all parents and teachers to participate in the online survey to ensure the next stage of hot school meals is even more successful and to ensure children continue to get the most nutritious and highest-quality meals possible.

“Fine Gael introduced the Hot School Meals Programme in Meath because we believe no child should be held back by hunger. This next phase is about refining and improving the programme so it continues to support children’s health and education.

"The survey will give parents, guardians, teachers and meal providers a direct opportunity to shape the next stage of the scheme."

The survey will also look at issues such as food waste, the suitability of centrally cooked meals versus on-site preparation, and whether parents feel the current menus accommodate allergies or plain eating habits. Participants will also be invited to offer suggestions for improving the programme.

The feedback gathered will be shared with Government and used to inform the next phase of the Hot School Meals Programme.

Senator Nelson Murray said the initiative has already got strong engagement from families and schools, with thousands of comments highlighting its positive impact on children’s health, wellbeing and learning.

“The Hot School Meals Programme has already transformed the school day for thousands of children in Meath "This survey will ensure we take the next steps to make it even better and ensure it remains a strong support in the future,” she concluded.

The survey is available at: finegael.ie/hotschoolmeals.