West Belfast MLA Danny Baker met stakeholders to gain backing for his Private Member's Bill. The legislation seeks to extend free school meals payments to school holidays.

The bill would assist over 90,000 children across Northern Ireland. Nearly 10,000 of those children live in West Belfast.

It passed second stage in the Assembly last month. The measure now proceeds to committee stage.

Baker stated that securing support remains essential for the bill to advance. He thanked organisations for committing to back the legislation.

He described the bill as one step toward reducing child poverty. Baker called it a vital aid for families eligible for free school meals over summer breaks.

Baker said he aims to pursue universal free school meals if re-elected. He urged all Assembly parties to cooperate in passing the bill.