Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue, has today (Friday, June 30) invited applications from animal welfare charities in Ireland who wish to be considered for funding for the provision of services in 2024.
In launching the application process, the minister said: “In recognition of my department’s commitment to animal welfare, we now invite applications for the Animal Welfare Grant Programme for 2023.
“I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the valuable services provided by animal welfare organisations in preventing and responding to animal welfare issues across Ireland.
“The hard work, commitment and dedication of the staff and volunteers of these charities is admirable and I recognise the importance of the work they do, protecting and caring for surrendered, abandoned and at-risk animals.
“These organisations also play a pivotal role in educating the public in relation to responsible pet ownership and animal welfare in general,” McConalogue added.
Animal welfare
The minister has reiterated his commitment to the Programme for Government priorities in relation to animal welfare.
“Real progress has been achieved in delivering on the Programme for Government and I am determined to continue to support the essential work of these organisations,” McConalogue continued.
“This commitment recognises the increasingly important role these organisations play in the area of animal welfare.
“In 2022, I announced record funding in excess of €5.8 million, awarded to 99 animal welfare organisations throughout the country, an increase of over €2 million on funding provided in 2021.”
Last month, several animal rights organisations met with members of the Oireachtas and agreed that a cross-party Dáil animal welfare group is “urgently needed”.
All applicants must be registered with the Charities Regulator and be in existence for over two years. The closing date for receipt of completed application forms is July 21, 2023.