McCrossan urges immediate action on holiday hunger and rising cost of achool uniforms

WEST Tyrone SDLP MLA., Daniel McCrossan, has called on the Executive to urgently address the financial strain facing families in Northern Ireland due to rising costs of school uniforms and the ongoing issue of holiday hunger.

A motion to tackle these issues was debated in the Assembly this week, following mounting concerns over the impact of inflation and cost-of-living pressures on families across the region.

“For too many families, school uniforms and holiday meals have become a source of financial hardship," said Mr McCrossan.

"No parent should have to choose between essentials or worry about their children going hungry during school breaks.

“The Executive must act now, with practical, enforceable measures, not just promises.”

McCrossan is urging the Department of Education to implement a cap on school uniform costs to make uniforms more affordable and to provide additional financial support for families in need.

He is also calling for an expansion of free school meal eligibility to help address holiday hunger, especially for the thousands of children who rely on school meals as their primary source of nutrition.

“This debate cannot end with mere statements of concern," he continued.

"We need clear commitments from the Education Minister to cap uniform prices and extend free school meal programs.

"Every day of inaction means more families struggling and more children going without the basics.”

McCrossan emphasised that tackling these issues is crucial to supporting the welfare and education of young people in Northern Ireland.

He says he is committed to pushing for real solutions in the Assembly to ensure that families receive the support they need to make it through these challenging times.