Thousands of primary school children are set to benefit from the government's free school meals programme.
The scheme will be expanded to all remaining Deis schools this September, with plans to introduce it to all primary schools next year.
It currently costs the state around 106.5 million euro a year.
Many schools in Waterford, including St. Saviour's National School having been running the initiative for some years based on a recognised need in the community.
Paddy Lavelle, General Secretary of Education and Training Boards, says it's a really important initiative.
"I think that the research shows that when school meals are provided, that students are well looked after in school, that they come on time, and they're able to concentrate on their schoolwork."
A report published today found that for many children, the hot meal provided in school is the only hot meal they have all day.
Other findings showed that many children bring left-over meals home to family as there is no hot food at home.
Feedback from more than 700 principals, 407 parents and 190 providers of meals in places such as after-school, showed that the free meal initiative reduced food poverty in children.
For your latest Waterford News and Sport, click here.
