SDLP Foyle candidate and Communities spokesperson Mark H Durkan
The demand is a key component of the SDLP six-point Cost of Living Action Plan announced this week and would provide additional support to some 97,000 children and families across Northern Ireland.
Said Mr Durkan: “The Education Authority will be providing a payment over the Easter break for families eligible for free school meals a crucial provision but sadly one which will not be extended beyond April 2022.
“This automatic payment, made to many vulnerable families has been a lifeline over the past two years. I was among the first proponents of this payment amid the COVID pandemic.
“Our communities are still in state of emergency and I would argue that the need for this payment is now more acute given the soaring costs of living.
“Foyle Foodbank have recently reported a 310% increase in demand for their services over the past five years. That is absolutely astounding and unsustainable.
“t’s painfully clear that this crisis is hitting families hard. The loss of the Universal Credit uplift in October last year, has further exacerbated the issue, pushing people deeper into poverty.
“It is ludicrous to strip people of financial support when they need it most. That’s why the extension of the Free School Meal payment for the remainder of 2022 is a key ask of the SDLP Cost of Living Action Plan.
“We recognise the need to support 97,000 children and their families and it is vital that low-income families who aren’t entitled to this payment, are also supported throughout this emergency.”
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