Parents in Mayo encouraged to have their say on hot school meals programme

A survey on the Hot School Meals Programme in Mayo has been launched, which will ensure children continue to get the most nutritious and highest-quality meals possible.

Minister of State, Alan Dillon TD, said, “Fine Gael introduced the Hot School Meals Programme in Mayo 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.

All parents and teachers are asked to participate in the online survey to ensure the next stage of hot school meals is even more successful. The survey is available here.

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 colleagues and used to inform the next phase of the Hot School Meals Programme. 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.

Minister Dillon said: “The Hot School Meals Programme has already transformed the school day for thousands of children in Mayo. This survey will ensure we take the next steps to make it even better and ensure it remains a strong support in the future.”