Fianna Fáil TD for Louth, Deputy Erin McGreehan, has warmly welcomed the launch of Bia Blasta (Delicious Food), a new €4.2 million pre-school nutrition programme announced today by Minister for Children, Disability, and Equality, Norma Foley TD.
The initiative will provide daily nutritious lunches to 25,000 children attending early learning and care services in disadvantaged areas — including 31 services across County Louth.
“This is a hugely positive step in tackling child food poverty and supporting children’s wellbeing,” said Deputy McGreehan. “I’m especially pleased to see so many services in Louth included in this programme. It will make a real difference to families and children across our county.”
The Bia Blasta programme will ensure children attending the free, universal ECCE (Early Childhood Care and Education) programme in designated services receive a healthy lunch each day. It also includes funding for equipment such as fridges, ovens, and dishwashers to help services deliver the meals.
The programme is part of the wider Equal Start model, which delivers targeted supports to children in disadvantaged areas. A total of €3.2 million will be allocated in 2025, with an additional €1 million available this year to help services prepare.
Deputy McGreehan concluded: “I want to thank all the early years educators and childcare professionals in Louth who work so hard to support children every day. This investment recognises their vital role and will help them continue to deliver high-quality care and education.”
For further information, reach out to Erin McGreehan.
Service Name:
- Aunty Paula’s Pre-school, Creche
- Castletown Girls Preschool
- CBS Preschool
- Claddagh Treasures
- Clever Clogs
- Cox’s Demense Youth & Community Project Ltd
- Cuddles Creche P AND S LTD
- De La Salle preschool
- Drogheda Women’s & Children’s Refuge Centre Company Limited By Guarantee
- Dun Dealgan Childcare
- Dundalk Creche
- Holy Family Parish Community Creche / Claddagh’s Treasures
- Jellytots daycare LTD
- Just Kids Pre-School + Afterschool
- Lios na nÓg Playgroup
- Little and Big Rascals
- Little Partners Creche Ltd
- Little steps
- MiniMinds Preschool
- Moneymore Afterschool Project
- Moneymore Childcare Centre
- Muirhevanamore Community Youth Project Ltd
- Naíonra Dhún Dealgan
- Playmates Montessori
- Realt na Mara Preschool & Afterschool
- Redeemer Creche and Playgroup Ltd
- Respond Early Years Service, Tredagh Court
- Respond School Age Service, Riverwell Close
- Smart Start
- Stepping Stones
- The Grove Early Years Education Centre
ENDS
