Parents urged to take hot school meals survey

There is one week left for parents across counties Cavan and Monaghan to take part in Fine Gael’s Hot School Meals Programme survey, says Deputy David Maxwell.

The questionnaire is aimed at improving and refining the scheme to ensure that children receive to highest quality nutrition during their educational journey.

Speaking during a visit to St. Dymphna’s National School, Tydavnet on Thursday morning, with Minister for Education Hildegarde Naughton, the Fine Gael representative noted that 6,000 respondents have given their feedback to date and encouraged others to do so before the survey ends. He also paid tribute to former Minister Heather Humphreys, who spearheaded the initiative.

Deputy Maxwell said: “Fine Gael introduced the Hot School Meals Programme in both Cavan and Monaghan 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. It will investigate 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 be asked to offer suggestions for improving the programme.

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

Find the survey here