Vol. 527 No. 1
90 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the ongoing request for funds by the Irish Seal Sanctuary; and if he will consider a once off grant aid as no other Government Department appears to have responsibility for animal welfare organisations. [27905/00]
My Department does not provide funding directly to any organisations such as the Irish seal sanctuary. While the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands has primary responsibility for dealing with wildlife, I understand it sees its responsibility as conservation of wildlife. I am informed that as the work of the Irish Seal Sanctuary is primarily of a welfare nature, involving the rehabilitation of individual seals, it does not come within that remit.
I am aware that a submission for grant aid has been made by the Irish Seal Sanctuary. At present the various pre-budget submissions are being considered; it is not the practice to divulge any of the detailed content of the budget in advance. Hence it is not possible to give specific commitments on the provision of funding for any particular organisation prior to budget day.
I can assure the Deputy that I have noted the case made on behalf of the Irish Seal Sanctuary and it will be considered along with the many other pre-budget requests I have received.
