1252. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will support in Budget 2027 the expansion of a school-based experiential learning programme, delivered by an independent, not-for-profit organisation (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56781/26]

In general, my Department does not endorse publications, products or services from individual, commercial or other providers, and does not recommend any specific services to schools in the context of supporting the curriculum. Schools and teachers determine the most appropriate programmes for their pupils based on the curriculum and guidance provided in that context.

The Deputy may wish to note, however, that in relation to healthy eating, the Department of Education and Youth supports Agri Aware’s Incredible Edibles programme, a healthy eating initiative for primary school pupils. The programme is also supported by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and the Department of Health. It encourages schools across the country to grow carrots, lettuce, potatoes, strawberries, turnips and herbs. Schools are supplied with grow packs, activity sheets and videos containing everything needed to grow these foods.

In addition, the Food Dudes Programme is a healthy eating programme developed to encourage children to eat more fresh fruit and vegetables. It is implemented in primary schools and is based on repeated tastings of fruit and vegetables supported by positive role modelling and rewards. The Food Dudes Healthy Eating Programme is managed by Bord Bia in Ireland and is funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine with support from the European Union under the School Fruit and Vegetables Scheme.

The 2nd National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development - ESD to 2030- aims to ensure that all learners have the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development. Under ESD to 2030, the department has provided ESD funding to organisations and to schools for ESD projects, programmes, resources and teacher professional learning. In 2025, 21 organisations were granted funding amounting to €465,962. The 2026 funding call for organisations is now complete and an announcement on grantees is due shortly. A full list of ESD to 2030 funding grantees is available on the ESD to 2030 webpage at the link provided above.