Bia Blasta initiative to benefit 25,000 preschool children in disadvantaged areas – Deputy Brendan Smith

Posted on by

Scheme aims to tackle child food poverty, and giving children the best start in life

Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan Monaghan, Brendan Smith, has hailed the introduction of the Bia Blasta initiative announced today by Minister Norma Foley as a significant measure to support young children in need.

Bia Blasta is a €4.2 million programme that will provide nutritious daily lunches to 25,000 preschool children in disadvantaged areas. The scheme is part of Equal Start, delivering real support where it’s needed most.

Speaking on the launch of the scheme today, Deputy Smith said, “I am delighted to be informed of the Bia Blasta, a pre-school nutrition programme, being announced today by Minister Norma Foley.

“Child food poverty is a huge issue that we must tackle. Through this initiative, it will ensure 25,000 pre-school children in disadvantaged areas have access to healthy nutritious meals during their time in pre-school.

Deputy Smith added, “This initiative will help children in so many ways. It will help them in their personal growth and development, improve their wellbeing, and help them learn about and enjoy healthy food.

“Bia Blasta is offering children in disadvantaged areas real support, and I am delighted today to hear that Tullachmongan, Claddagh and Cootehill childcare services in our constituency have been included in the initiative.

A total of €3.2 million is available to deliver the programme in 2025. €1m is also being made available up to the end of this year for services participating in Bia Blasta to purchase approved items up to a value of €1,000 per service to enable them to deliver the pre-school nutrition programme. This will include equipment such as a fridge, freezer, dishwasher, hob, or oven, ensuring access to the scheme is made easier for participants.

In conclusion, Deputy Smith said Fianna Fáil is serious about tackling child food poverty, reaffirming our commitment to ensuring every child the best start in life.

“In Fianna Fáil, we’re committed to ensuring every child the best start in life. We are leaving no stone unturned on this issue, and this initiative today will benefit thousands of children who need it most.”

ENDS

Full list of services included in Cavan and Monaghan:

Cavan

  • Bailieborough Development Association Ltd (BDA)
  • Bailieborough Resource Hse
  • Circle of Friends Childcare Services
  • Claddagh Childcare Limited
  • Cootehill Community Childcare
  • Krafty Kidz Afterschool
  • KraftyKidz Daisy Hill
  • Laochra Academy St. Clares
  • Tullacmongan Childcare Service

Monaghan

  • Aspire afterschool
  • Castleblayney Community Childcare (Iontas Childcare)
  • Laurel Hill Community Childcare
  • Little Wonders
  • Teach na bPaisti
  • Tinys Day Nursery
  • Tree tops MN childcare ltd