39. Deputy Tom Brabazon asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if she intends to undertake a review of the Bia Blasta Pre-school Nutrition Programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46787/26]

Since the start of the programme in October 2025, Bia Blasta has been providing nutritious meals to children who are attending Equal Start services. These early learning and childcare services are focused on serving disadvantaged communities around the country. Bia Blasta has been received very positively by educators, children and parents. Bia Blasta will continue to be expanded incrementally, subject to funding, with the objective of providing nutritious meals to children most in need. 450 services and almost 12,000 children are currently engaged in the programme.

Officials in the Department of Children, Disability and Equality are now undertaking a year one review with service providers of the Bia Blasta pre-school nutrition programme following the completion of its first full active year. DCDE has recently held two consultation groups with early years educators, and a survey will be launched through Better Start to receive feedback from service providers on the programme so far. The National Lead Dietician for children established through the programme, is conducting visits to services around the country to offer support and learn how services are implementing the programme and what can be improved.

Bia Blasta programme supports are provided to services through the Bia Blasta Dietitian through specially developed resources available on the Nurturing Skills professional learning hub with health and safety training being developed by Safe Food. Bia Blasta has now expanded beyond just Equal Start services, adding 80 new pre-school services since April, with more joining in September.