Cork South West TD and Independent Ireland leader Michael Collins said the school meals programme had promised fairness, but had instead unravelled into a policy “with more holes than help”, leaving smaller schools at risk of losing out.

The TD claims the minister has not yet provided the Oireachtas committee with the breakdown of how many students are still without a special education needs place.

The TD said that while any financial relief to families and developmental benefits for children is welcome, the proposed one-hour extension is only “a drop in the ocean”.

Inspirational Ken Foley from Scoil Padre Pio primary school wanted to ensure that parents felt supported in their mission to adopt healthy eating habits at home.