To maximise the benefit of the scheme, the Executive has agreed to a proposal from Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew that a “top-up” subsidy for school milk supplied to secondary schools be provided on the same basis as for nursery and primary schools.
Minister Gildernew said: “Under devolution we have the opportunity to make choices that make sense for local communities. In this instance we have been able to secure Executive agreement that the Departments of Agriculture, Education and Health will extend the existing cost-sharing arrangement, so that secondary schools will receive the same level of funding under the scheme as nursery and primary schools.
“This is a good result for all concerned, not only on the nutritional benefits front, but also for the local dairy industry and particularly producers. I am grateful to my ministerial colleagues in Education and Health for their continued support for this Scheme.”
Notes to Editors:
- Commission Regulation (EC) No 657/2008 of 10 July 2008 refers.
- The aim of the EU School Milk Scheme is to encourage the consumption of milk products by making them available in schools at a reduced cost.
- In Northern Ireland, in addition to the EU subsidy, a local “top-up” subsidy will be paid on drinking milk, flavoured milk and plain yoghurt supplied to children in nursery, primary and secondary schools. Currently the subsidies are worth 3.8p per 200ml serving.
- Schools wishing to participate in the Scheme should liaise with their local Education and Library Board.
- Media queries to DARD Press Office 028 90252 4619. Out of hours, please call the Duty Press Officer via pager numbers 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.
