Animal welfare charities to receive highest ever government funding
More than €5.8 million will be allocated to 99 animal welfare charities in 2023, which will be the highest ever level of funding given by the government. Minister of State Pippa Hackett announced a 55% rise in this funding, with an increase of more than €2 million from 2022.
The level of funding for animal welfare charities has doubled since the government took office in 2020. Some of the main beneficiaries of the funding include the ISPCA, the Donkey Sanctuary, Irish Horse Welfare Trust, the Irish Blue Cross and Seal Rescue Ireland. Funding is also provided for a wide range of local charities across the country, from Cavan to Kerry.
Minister Hackett said;
“Animal welfare funding is something the Green Party fought hard for in the Programme for Government negotiations. I am delighted that we are giving the highest ever level of support to animal welfare charities, that carry out such vital work, often on a voluntary basis. This €5.8 million will make a real difference in the crucial work they carry out across the country, often in difficult circumstances. I am grateful for the essential job they do in protecting the health and well-being of animals across the country.”
The Green Party has used its position in government to take a leading role on animal welfare. This year, it has passed historic legislation banning fur farming, a move welcomed by several animal welfare groups. Green Party representatives have also brought forth proposed measures that would require the presence of a vet during the export of live animals, regulate the breeding, owning, sale and supply of exotic pet species and examine the treatment of animal welfare in the greyhound industry.
Senator Pauline O’Reilly welcomed the funding announced today;
“Animal welfare is an issue which has always been at the heart of Green Party policy, and this funding will provide 99 charities all across Ireland with the means to do this critical work. The Green Party in Government have been a driving an increase in animal welfare standards, and we will continue to do so over the next two years.”
