The Contracting Authority requires the provision of sustainable (evolving process) healthy, balanced and nutritious catering service to its students, staff and visitors at affordable prices. A high quality, responsive and flexible service is required in providing a range of pre-prepared lunch food options.  It should be noted that the menu must be in line with the School’s Healthy Eating Policy and the School Meals Programme.  In order to prevent menu fatigue a varied choice of meals should be provided and seasonality of produce considered.  The successful tenderer will be expected to demonstrate innovation and flair in the creation of value for money menus taking into consideration the socioeconomic conditions of the area and must also provide a number of ‘special theme’ catering days as the occasion demands.  Lunch meal deals are also encouraged i.e. hot lunch, fruit and drink package etc. Consideration should also be given for those with special dietary needs such as gluten-free and vegetarian.  Continuous improvement and innovation of the service is expected over the estimated 33 weeks of the school year Funding is provided for School Meals (Local projects) Scheme through the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection. Funding is allocated on a school year basis and must be applied for each year. There is no automatic enment to funding and all applications  are considered on the available budget for the Scheme. Whilst this competition is being run for a specific period it is entirely dependent on the aforementioned funding, and MSLETB reserve the right to cancel the contract in the event that funding is no longer forthcoming