Minister announces animal welfare charities to receive €6m allocated to 101 organisations in November 2024

The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue T.D, today announced funding of €6 million to 101 animal welfare charities nationwide.

In recognition that 2024 has again been a very challenging year for charities involved in the rescue and rehabilitation of animals, the highest ever allocation have been maintained.

Minister McConalogue said

"Animals are much-loved companions for so many of us in Ireland, the welfare of animals is a priority for me and for my Department. In this regard, I am delighted to announce today that I am maintaining the highest ever level of funding by my Department to animal welfare charities. These grants will support the organisations in the vital work they do across the country, protecting, rescuing and taking care of animals, and providing education and guidance so as to prevent welfare problems from arising in the future. The awards this year continue to focus on rewarding those organisations that have been successful in rehoming, providing educational initiatives, and promoting awareness of responsible pet ownership during 2024. I recognise that again this year, animal welfare charities have had additional pressures to deal with, and I would like to thank their staff and volunteer for their dedication."

Highlighting the important work done by animal welfare charities in Ireland, the Minister said

"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 and improving animal welfare. Responsible pet ownership campaigns can help to reduce the number of dogs abandoned or surrendered, and therefore can reduce the pressure on dog shelters and charities. For this reason, the Programme for Government included a commitment to promote responsible pet ownership."

In advance of the Christmas season, the Minister reminded the public that pet ownership is a long-time commitment with financial and lifestyle commitments that need to be considered.

Awards are subject to approval and details of the awards are available here.