Free period products initiative extended to all schools

Education Minister Hildegarde Naughton is expected to announce the expansion of the free period products initiative to all eligible upper primary, post-primary and special schools participating in the free education scheme from the 2027/28 school year.

The announcement builds on the introduction of the initiative in DEIS Plus schools during the 2026/27 school year.

The measure delivers on a key Programme for Government commitment to ensure that no student is held back in their education because of period poverty.

Schools will receive annual grant funding from the Department of Education and Youth to provide free period products for students who may need them during the school day.

The initiative follows consultation with students, teachers and school leaders, who expressed strong support for the provision of free period products in schools and highlighted concerns about rising costs and the impact of period poverty.

Students who participated in the consultation emphasised the importance of being able to access period products discreetly, easily and without stigma while at school.

The scheme is designed to support student wellbeing, inclusion and participation, while helping schools respond to the practical needs of young people.

Guidance and implementation supports will be issued to schools in advance of the initiative commencing in the 2027/28 school year.