Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed the confirmation of the Summer Holiday Meals Programme for 2026, which will see both Brú Bhríde in Tuam and Foróige Gort included in the projects taking part this summer under Galway and Roscommon ETB.

The programme, which supports young people during the school summer holidays by providing hot or substantial meals through participating youth services, is being expanded this year with increased national funding of €600,000. Brú Bhríde was included in last year’s pilot, with Foróige Gort being added this year with the expansion of the service.

Under the scheme, 77 UBU Your Place Your Space-funded youth services across all 16 Education and Training Boards will take part over the summer months, up from 41 projects last year.

Minister Canney said the programme will provide important support for young people and families during the summer period.

“This programme is about making sure young people have somewhere safe, supportive and welcoming to go during the summer months, while also ensuring they have access to nutritious meals,” Minister Canney said.

“I am particularly pleased to see both Brú Bhríde in Tuam and Foróige Gort included as part of this year’s programme. Youth services play an incredibly important role in communities, especially during school holidays, and this support will make a real difference for young people and families locally.”

The programme will begin on 2 June and is aimed at young people aged between 10 and 18 attending participating youth services throughout the summer.

Minister Canney said the significant expansion of the scheme showed the value of the initiative following its introduction last year.

“The increase in funding and the expansion from 41 to 77 projects nationally shows the positive impact this programme is already having,” he said.

“It is a practical initiative that supports young people, helps families and strengthens local youth services at community level.”

Galway projects participating in the 2026 Summer Holiday Meals Pilot Programme under Galway and Roscommon ETB:

• Brú Bhríde, Tuam
• Foróige Gort
• Foróige Eastside Youth Service
• Foróige Bohermore Youth Service
• Foróige Ballinfoyle Area Youth Project