A national programme of emergency food aid is required for schools in Ireland, it has been claimed.

Independent TD John Halligan has called on Taoiseach Enda Kenny to establish such an initiative to combat the effect increasing poverty levels is having on young people in the country, the Irish Times reports.

Mr Halligan told the Dail that some level of poverty is suffered by almost 300,000 children, which is resulting in rising numbers heading to school while still feeling hungry.

The Waterford TD claimed the problem is now at a critical level, explaining some principals are even bringing in food themselves to distribute among pupils.

Options put forward by Mr Halligan to address the problem include providing food to after-school homework clubs and extending the current breakfast club scheme.

Being hungry in the classroom could affect the concentration levels of children - and Mr Halligan revealed teachers have reported a climb "in the number of pupils who have difficulties with literacy and numeracy".

Written by Donal Walsh

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