Call for locally sourced meals for Leitrim schools amid fears over food quality

Concerns have been raised about the nutritional value of the food being provided to children through the School Meals Programme.

From this year, all primary schools, both DEIS and non-DEIS, are eligible for hot school meals. Cllr James Gilmartin described the initiative as a “very welcome programme,” but noted that concerns are growing around the nutritional guidelines and the quality of the food children are receiving.

He called on Leitrim County Council to write to the Minister for Social Protection and the Minister for Health calling for a comprehensive reform of school meal standards.

“This should include national nutrition guidelines based on international best practice, phasing out ultra-processed foods, and replacing them with fresh, nutrient-dense, locally sourced meals,” his motion stated.

“This is an investment in our future, because you are what you eat effectively. It’s a great scheme but it needs monitoring,” said Cllr Gilmartin. 

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“There are guidelines there at the moment that, if followed correctly, you would hope would lead to healthy and nutritious food. A lot of these companies are pumping out large amounts of food and it’s about making money at the end of the day,” he added.

Cllr Gilmartin’s motion was unanimously supported by elected members of Leitrim County Council. He, along with other councillors, suggested that using locally sourced food producers would be ideal and help to address concerns.

“It’s a very good scheme but if they’re not getting good quality food then it’s an absolute waste of time,” commented Cllr Bohan.

Cllr Róisín Kenny shared a similar view, saying, “There’s no point in taking the cheapest food if it’s junk you’re going to be giving kids, it means so much for their brain development to be getting proper food and proper nutrition.”

Cllr Cormac Flynn pointed out the difficulty of sourcing food from local producers under current funding. 

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He explained that the Government is providing 75 cent per breakfast, €1.70 per lunch, and €2.50 per dinner to suppliers. “The rates for the suppliers need to be hugely upped,” he said. “Trying to have a profit margin for that is next to impossible and that’s why they’re getting what they’re getting.”

Cllr Enda McGloin acknowledged the importance of Cllr Gilmartin’s motion, but argued that the immediate priority should be improving school transport for children, an issue that has also caused significant stress for parents.

“I’d prefer to get that right and get those kids to school and then look at what can be done in terms of school meals,” he remarked.