Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 December 2023
44. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the reason organisations in Carlow were not included on the list of funding for animal welfare charities announced recently. [55639/23]
View answerIn July this year, I launched the call for applications for the Animal Welfare Grants Programme for Registered Animal Welfare Charities. There were 103 applications received this year for funding to assist with their welfare activities in 2024. There were no applications received from welfare charities based in Carlow.
On the 7th of December, I announced funding of €6 million to 101 animal welfare charities nationwide, through the Animal Welfare Grants Programme. This is the largest award of grant funding to animal welfare bodies ever made by my Department.
Awards are made on the basis of objective criteria which are reviewed on an annual basis. The awards align with the goals set out in my Department's animal welfare strategy, which I published in 2021.
This year, there is an additional focus on supporting charities involved in rehoming dogs. I recognise that 2023 has been a particularly challenging year in terms of dog welfare and for those working to rescue, protect and rehome dogs. The grants reflect this and will enable these organisations to continue to deliver on the rescue and rehoming of dogs throughout 2024.
In addition, again this year, the awards also supported the provision of education and knowledge sharing to the public on animal welfare and responsible pet ownership. Raising public awareness on responsible pet ownership and highlighting the many challenges and responsibilities that come with owning a pet will help reduce the number of animals being surrendered.
Finally, I’d like to acknowledge the important work carried out, often in very challenging circumstances, by animal welfare organisations and their dedicated volunteers and staff across Ireland. Animal welfare charities play a crucial role in helping animals in need, educating people, and raising public awareness about improving animal welfare. The grants provided will support Animal Welfare charities with their dedicated work throughout 2024.
