Funding for Meals on Wheels 'doesn't go far enough' says Moate group

The Meals on Wheels programme is still under pressure following Budget 2026, according to Moate-based Irish Rural Link.

Irish Rural Link and the National Meals on Wheels Network (NMOWN) welcomed the allocation of €2 million in the 2026 Budget, but expressed deep disappointment that the allocation will not go far enough for providers who are continuing to struggle with increased demand, rising costs and the lack of sufficient ring-fenced funding to enable them to budget adequately for a service that aligns with Sláintecare, the HSE National Service Plan, and the Programme for Government.

In 2024, over 2.8 million meals were delivered to 228,000 people by 318 HSE-funded providers nationwide.

"The same number, if not more, are on track for 2025. Yet, the sector remains overstretched, under-resourced, and reliant on a volunteer base that is rapidly declining post-COVID. The lack of strategic investment threatens the sustainability of a service that is central to community care, hospital discharge pathways, and ageing in place," the groups said in a statement.

CEO of Irish Rural Link Seamus Boland said: “We have continuously urged policymakers to recognise the strategic value of Meals on Wheels. This is a low-cost, high-impact service that deserves to be treated as a core part of our health and social care system, not an afterthought.”

Development Officer for the NMOWN Tracey Noone said: “While an increase in funding is always welcome, €2 million will not go anywhere near enough to addressing the challenges faced by both the Meals on Wheels Sector and the NMOWN. This service supports older and vulnerable people to age and remain in their own homes with dignity and independence. The service is more than just a meal. It is a security check, a link to community and to other essential services and should be embedded and prioritised as part of the suite of healthcare services in line with Sláintecare. Without proper funding and reform, we risk losing this essential service.”

Both Irish Rural Link and the National Meals on Wheels Network will be seeking an urgent meeting with Minister Kieran O’Donnell to discuss these challenges and how the sector can be adequately sustained and supported moving forward.