Ireland to provide free period products to all schools by 2027

Minister for Education Hildegarde Naughton plans to expand the free period products initiative to all eligible upper primary, post-primary, and special schools in Ireland starting in the 2027/28 school year.

The Department of Education and Youth will provide annual grant funding to schools to supply free products for students during the school day. This move follows the initial launch of the program in DEIS Plus schools, which are schools serving students from socio-economically disadvantaged areas, during the 2026/27 school year.

The policy aims to prevent period poverty from hindering a student's education. The government designed the scheme after consulting with students, teachers, and school leaders. These groups expressed concerns about rising costs and the impact of period poverty on young people. Students specifically noted that they need to access products discreetly and without stigma. The department will issue guidance and implementation support to schools before the expanded initiative begins.