Election Watch 2024 - Dáil Éireann 34

Coeliac children in Ireland are being excluded from the Hot School Meals programme.

What is your TD going to do about the exclusion of coeliac children from the Hot School Meals programme?

This means they are denied access to safe, gluten-free meals because they have coeliac disease.
This exclusion is unjust, unlawful, and puts unnecessary strain on families who already face daily challenges in managing their child’s health.

What We Want to Achieve

We demand that the government:

Provide clear guidelines to schools on how to cater for children with coeliac disease.
Include safe, gluten-free options in the Hot School Meals programme for every school in Ireland.
Ensure no child is left out of vital nutritional programmes due to their medical condition.

This is about fairness, equality, and ensuring that all children—regardless of dietary needs—have access to healthy, safe meals at school. Together, we can make this happen.

We’d love to hear more about your experiences with Hot School Meals Programme. We want the good, the bad and the downright ugly!

What Can You Do?

As the general election approaches, we have a unique opportunity to make our voices heard. We’re asking all parents to:

Ask the tough questions when TDs come knocking: When your local TD comes to your door looking for your vote to get into the Dáil, ask them directly:
What are you going to do about the exclusion of coeliac children from the Hot School Meals programme?
This isn’t just about your family—it’s about over 100,000 families in Ireland living with coeliac disease today. Hold them accountable and demand a real commitment to ensuring our children are not left behind.
Share your story: Personal stories make a powerful impact. If you’re willing, please share your family’s experience with us, and we can amplify your voice in our advocacy efforts.
Spread the word: Encourage other parents, friends, and members of your community to join our call for action.

Download some printed materials to have to hand when Election Candidates knock on your door! Make them see what’s important to you as a voter!

Click the image below to see the handout

Spread the Word! Help us get this campaign online and going viral! Let’s work together to make that change for all children living with Coeliac disease in Ireland.