Mayo TD calls for free school period products answered

Mayo TD Keira Keogh has welcomed confirmation that free period products will be made available in all upper primary, post-primary and special schools from the 2027/28 school year, following her calls for improved access for students.

Deputy Keogh raised the issue directly with the Tánaiste in the Dáil on July 16, calling for period products to be made freely available in school bathrooms so that young girls would not have to experience the embarrassment of asking a teacher for them.

During her Dáil intervention, she highlighted the difficulties faced by students when products were unavailable, including instances where young people were forced to use newspaper or toilet roll instead.

In response, the Tánaiste committed to engaging further with the Ministers for Education and Health, agreeing that students should not have to ask someone in a position of authority to access an essential health product.

The issue was also included in the recommendations of the Oireachtas Children and Equality Committee’s report on Child Poverty and Deprivation, which was chaired by Deputy Keogh.

Welcoming the announcement, Deputy Keogh said she was delighted to see the measure being introduced.

“No young girl should have to worry about accessing a period product during the school day or feel embarrassed about having to ask someone for one.

“I raised this issue in the Dáil because it is about basic dignity and ensuring every student can participate fully in school without unnecessary worry.

“This is very welcome news for students, families and schools across Mayo and the country.”

Under the expanded scheme, schools will receive annual grant funding to provide free period products from the 2027/28 school year, ensuring students have access to essential products while at school without having to request them from staff.