As the school summer holidays approach, concerns are once again being raised about the issue of “holiday hunger” and the impact the long break can have on families already struggling with the rising cost of living.
While the Hot School Meals Programme has expanded significantly in recent years, many children lose access to a reliable hot meal once schools close for the summer. Last year, the Government introduced a Holiday Hunger Pilot Programme worth €1.3 million, supporting approximately 40,000 children, but no decision has yet been made on whether the scheme will continue this year.
There are now growing calls for the initiative to be expanded and made permanent, amid warnings that too many families face additional financial pressure during the summer months due to increased food, childcare and household costs.
We were joined on The Agenda this morning by Fine Gael Senator Linda Nelson Murray, who has been calling on Government to strengthen supports for families and tackle child food poverty during school holidays.