Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 September 2022
2094. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if grants will be distributed earlier in the year to assist animal welfare organisations in meeting the substantial bills many are faced with throughout each year; if he will consider addressing funding increase deficits among smaller organisations and those organisations in rural localities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42120/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAnimal welfare is a high priority for my Department and considerable resources and funding are provided to organisations involved in rescuing and rehoming animals.
In December 2021, I provided record funding of €3.7million to 98 animal welfare bodies throughout the country, including smaller organisations and those based in rural localities.
This funding for animal welfare organisations was evidence of my own and the Government’s ongoing commitment to animal welfare and acknowledges the important role played by animal welfare organisations. These organisations play a crucial role in ensuring all our animals are cared for and protected.
The Programme for Government includes an undertaking to provide additional funding in support of animal welfare again this year, to which I am fully committed.
The call for grant applications for this year's awards was launched in June this year and applications received are now being evaluated by my officials. The application process has been revised this year to reflect the importance of the provision of education on animal welfare by grant applicants to a broader range of citizens, with the goal of improving the understanding of animal welfare and responsible pet ownership by the public.
All applicants are encouraged to provide these services regardless of size or location. The evaluation process must be robust and takes some time, to ensure the appropriate distribution of public funds.
The purpose of the 2022 Animal Welfare Grant Programme for Registered Charities is to provide funding to animal welfare organisations for the direct provision of care to animals throughout 2023. These awards will be announced and funding provided to successful applicants before the end of 2022.
