Two thirds of people strongly agree that the Government should introduce universal free hot meals for primary school children. 

The poll conducted by the Children’s Rights Alliance comes amid ongoing debate about how to spend the bonanza of corporation tax revenue. 

65% strongly agree that primary school children should have free hot school meals, while 24% slightly agree. 

A majority also believe they should be provided to children during the school holidays as well. 

Spokesperson Julie Ahern said such a measure would be transformative for young children. 

“Food is a huge issue for families,” she said. 

“We know that the hot school meal programme that is in place in schools is having a huge, positive effective on these children and young people. 

“Having these meals in place can really make sure that during the term time, these young people can participate because they’re not distracted because they’re hungry.” 

Children at a school canteen. Image: Johner Images / Alamy Stock Photo

The poll also found that two in three people support an increase in social welfare supports for children in low-income families.

“We have one in five children in Ireland experiencing deprivation,” Ms Ahern said. 

“That could mean things like going to bed hungry because there’s not enough to put food on the table every night.”

Taoiseach Simon Harris has previously suggested that extra supports for low-income families would not be included in this year’s budget.

Main image: Children at a primary school eating a school dinner. Picture by: Alamy.com 

Reporting by James Wilson and Joe Caulfield.