Union says rise in cost of school dinners will put further pressure on families

A proposed 50p increase in the cost of school dinners will put pressure on families who are already under “significant strain”, a union has said.

The cost of paid-for school dinners in Northern Ireland will rise by 50p in January as part of measures to address a funding crisis in the education sector.

The Education Authority (EA), which manages schools in Northern Ireland, is facing a funding shortfall of around £300 million.

These include increased charges for school meals and reductions in staff overtime payments.

Trade union Nipsa has said it has “significant concerns” following the EA’s announcement of cost-reduction measures.

It has “urgently” requested a meeting with the EA and called for “complete transparency” on the potential consequences of these measures on students, families and staff.

Natalie Shiel of Nipsa said: “These proposals will place additional financial pressure on families and staff who are already under significant strain.

“They underscore the ongoing issues with education funding, where once again, staff are left to bear the brunt.

“The Education Authority must work collaboratively with unions and rethink its strategy.

“Nipsa has also firmly opposed the proposed increase in school meal prices. The Union argues that additional costs should not be placed on families, particularly those who do not qualify for free meals despite having low incomes.

“Nipsa is urging the EA to suspend these measures and collaborate with trade unions to develop fairer solutions that safeguard the wellbeing of both staff and pupils.”

The EA said prices paid for school meals have not increased since 2017/18 and will “remain well below the cost of producing a meal”.