32. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she is satisfied with the level of provision under the Summer Programme and the way in which it operates; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54195/26]

Details of this year’s Summer Programme were published on the 6th May 2026. Funding of €62 million has been secured to ensure the continuance of the annual investment in the 2026 Summer Programme. As in previous years, all of the funding will be utilised to meet the associated costs and ensure a comprehensive programme.

All schools have been given an opportunity to run a programme over the summer months for those children who need it most so that these children can continue to be supported, nurtured and encouraged to engage in a fun and inclusive educational setting

The main priority again in 2026 is that those children with complex special educational needs, especially in special schools, have access to a school-based programme.

In response to the Deputy’s question about the level of provision and the way the Summer Programme operates, various supports have been introduced to encourage schools to participate. For special schools, these include:

• a bespoke pilot programme,

• the appointment of a National Coordinator,

• a shorter school day,

• additional grant funding

• and school transport.

For all schools, supports include:

• key leadership roles like the Summer Programme Organiser and Summer Programme Manager,

• higher personal rate of pay for staff,

• a workforce portal to recruit external staff,

• faster payment to staff,

• and enhanced capitation.

As in 2025, the Department of Education and Youth and the Department of Social Protection have partnered together in a pilot project designed to combat holiday hunger. Schools who provide meals during the school term have the option of offering them during their summer programmes. This will help to reduce the costs for schools running a summer programme and will ease the burden on parents.

Where a school does not run a school-based programme or there is no place on the programme for an eligible child, schools have been invited to make an application for the home-based programme.