Vol. 481 No. 1
35 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will regularise and improve funding for the Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in view of the fact that this organisation is the only body in the greater Dublin area which looks after and cares for the welfare of animals; if he will recognise the work of this organisation through improved funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15293/97]
Grants totalling £100,000 have been made to the DSPCA by my Department since September 1995 to alleviate the society's financial difficulties. It was not the intention that such payments would take place on a regular basis, and the society has been so informed. While I have long been aware of the very valuable work which the society carries out for the welfare of animals generally in the Dublin area, the Deputy will appreciate that I must necessarily reconcile a great many demands on the funds at my disposal. Regrettably it is not possible to make a further grant to the society at this juncture but I will keep them in mind and should resources permit I will consider further assistance at a future date.
