IN A bid to eliminate childhood hunger, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis last night announced his administration would implement a universal school meals programme in the public school system if re-elected.

The plan would provide free breakfast, lunch and snacks for all students in the government school system.

Billed as a huge announcement ahead of last night’s Free National Movement drive-in rally, the programme will be offered to families regardless of income.

Dr Minnis described it not only as a means of providing nutritious meals for children in a nation where obesity is a challenge, but as a tool to boost savings in families where there is more than one child.

Those in primary school and high school will be eligible for the initiative.

The FNM would roll out the programme over a five-year period to ensure it is well funded and properly designed for sustainability, Dr Minnis said.

Vegan options will be available along with the inclusion of locally grown and produced food products.

“Many children go to school each day hungry,” he told FNM supporters at the Queen Elizabeth Sports Centre. “Their parents do not have the money to provide them with enough to eat. I came from the inner city, from the ghetto. I know.

“There are school lunch programmes to help those most in need. However, so much more is necessary for so many more children. The FNM has decided to be even bolder.

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