SDLP Social Justice Spokesperson Mark H Durkan has welcomed confirmation that children eligible for Free School Meals will not be impacted by the recently announced school closures.
Mr Durkan suggested that schools could prepare and deliver lunches to cater for some of society’s must vulnerable families at this difficult time.
The Foyle MLA said: “I raised the need for a free school payment provision from the outset of this crisis.
“Now as we delve into further restrictions and a more challenging time economically; with jobs on the line, households already struggling financially, it is crucial that a free school meal provision is available for these families.
“This necessary support must be in place to protect some of the most vulnerable children within our communities.
“After such a difficult few months, the reopening of schools and the guarantee of free school meals, provided some semblance of security.
“With the newly announced restrictions and school closures, it is crucial these children can still depend on free meals.
“To lift a burden from struggling families and to provide assurances that their kids will be catered for.
“The Education Minister, Peter Weir has given assurances that those children in receipt of Free School Meals will not be impacted.
“Further detail must be given on what shape this provision will take and when it will be implemented.
“I hope whatever scheme is put forward is treated with a degree of immediacy and will prove more accessible than the initial Free School Meal Payment scheme which was marred with difficulties even getting funds into the hands of those who needed it.
“As child poverty here soars and we venture into more uncertain economic territory, it is vitally important that we can at least guarantee free school meals for our most vulnerable children.”
