Dublin pre-school services to benefit from €4.2 million lunch scheme

Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin Bay North, Tom Brabazon has today welcomed news from his colleague Minister Norma Foley that pre school children right across Dublin Bay North will now benefit from free lunches under the new Bia Blasta scheme.

Bia Blasta is a €4.2 million programme that will provide nutritious daily lunches to 25,000 preschool children in disadvantaged areas. The scheme is part of Equal Start, delivering real support where it’s needed most.

Speaking on the launch of the scheme today, Deputy Brabazon said, “I am delighted to be informed of the Bia Blasta programme. Child food poverty is a huge issue that we must tackle. Through this initiative, fourteen childcare services across will now be supported to provide nutritious lunches to preschool children on a daily basis.

Brabazon added, “This initiative will help children in so many ways. It will help them in their personal growth and development, improve their wellbeing, and help them learn about and enjoy healthy food. It will also ease some financial pressure of purchasing lunches for families. This can only be welcome at a time of grocery inflation.

“Preschoolers from Kilbarrack Children’s Community Project, Darndale Belcamp New Life Centre to Kilmore West Community playgroup will now all benefit from full bellies thanks to this great initiative to bring lunches to this younger bracket of children. 

A total of €3.2 million is available to deliver the programme in 2025. €1m is also being made available up to the end of this year for services participating in Bia Blasta to purchase approved items up to a value of €1,000 per service to enable them to deliver the pre-school nutrition programme. This will include equipment such as a fridge, freezer, dishwasher, hob, or oven, ensuring access to the scheme is made easier for participants.

In conclusion, Deputy Brabazon said Fianna Fáil is serious about tackling child food poverty, reaffirming our commitment to ensuring every child the best start in life.

“In Fianna Fáil, we’re committed to ensuring every child the best start in life. We are leaving no stone unturned on this issue, and this initiative today will benefit thousands of children who need it most.”