I commend the King government for bringing in a school lunch program. We know there are hundreds of young people on the island who are hungry each day. Having the breakfast program, provided by volunteers, and having the lunch program are a good start in getting the bellies filled of these, our most important islanders.
I do have an issue with some of the lunch programs being provided by a private company. We all know the gov’t can provided a service with more consistency, and using product from local producers will benefit their families. Using gov’t employees will also help the economy as they will earn a livable wage.
By contracting some of the lunch service to a private company, the company does not have to pay a livable wage, nor purchase supplies from local producers. They are also in business to make a profit. It has been proven over and over that gov’t is capable of providing first rate service for less cost to taxpayers.
And with the closure of the school for the next few weeks, and perhaps longer, there will be many young people missing these meals. If you are aware of and able to help feed theses children, please do.
Leah-Jane Hayward,
Past president, NDP P.E.I.
