Sinn Féin spokesperson on Education, Sorca Clarke TD, has said that no DEIS school should be declined funding for a breakfast club.

Teachta Clarke said:

“In the 2023/2024 school year, six DEIS Urban Band 1 schools were declined funding for a breakfast club.

“Breakfast is often called the most important meal of the day. It contributes massively to a person’s energy and concentration levels which is essential for student health and academic success.

“We must remember that supports offered by the School Meal Programme whether it be breakfast, a cold lunch, or a hot meal can be the difference between a child eating that day or not.

“In the case of these six schools in Carlow, Cork, Kerry, Limerick and Mayo, DEIS status had already been granted.

“The disadvantage and deprivation of these schools had already been recognised.

“However, they were declined funding for a breakfast club for the sole reason that they were ‘newly designated DEIS schools’.

“Where is the equity and fairness in it all?

“There should not be a hierarchy of DEIS schools.

“All DEIS schools should have equal access and adequate supports provided to them in a timely manner.”