Funding worth €6 million for 101 animal welfare charities nationwide has been announced by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue today (Thursday, November 7).
In recognition that 2024 has again been a “very challenging” year for charities involved in the rescue and rehabilitation of animals, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) has maintained the highest ever allocation.
Announcing the funding allocation today, the minister said animals are much-loved companions for so many of us in Ireland, and added that the welfare of animals is a “priority” for him and his department.
“These grants will support the organisations in the vital work they do across the country, protecting, rescuing and taking care of animals, and providing education and guidance so as to prevent welfare problems from arising in the future.
“The awards this year continue to focus on rewarding those organisations that have been successful in rehoming, providing educational initiatives, and promoting awareness of responsible pet ownership during 2024.
“I recognise that again this year, animal welfare charities have had additional pressures to deal with, and I would like to thank their staff and volunteers for their dedication,” Minister McConalogue said.
Animal welfare
“Animal welfare charities play a crucial role in helping animals in need, educating people, and raising public awareness and improving animal welfare.
“Responsible pet ownership campaigns can help to reduce the number of dogs abandoned or surrendered, and therefore can reduce the pressure on dog shelters and charities.
“For this reason, the Programme for Government included a commitment to promote responsible pet ownership,” Minister McConalogue said.
In advance of the Christmas season, the minister reminded the public that pet ownership is a long-time commitment with financial and lifestyle commitments that need to be considered.
Last year, the DAFM seized over 2,000 animals on farms, mainly due to animal welfare issues. Department figures obtained by Agriland show that 1,404 pigs were removed, 645 sheep, 246 cattle, 14 horses and eight donkeys.