The DESC says it is “difficult to confirm” the exact amount spent on primary school meals which was not compliant with government financial rules.
The statement was made by Minister Daphne Caine in response to a written question from Ramsey MHK Lawrie Hooper.
Mrs Caine said the total spend was declared to ensure transparency after a financial irregularity was reported, clarifying that “a portion of this expenditure will have been procured in line with Financial Regulations”.
She revealed £1,069,934 was spent on catering materials in 2024/25, with a further £450,318 by September 2025.