Minister McConalogue invites applications for the Animal Welfare Grants Programme 2024

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue T.D, has today invited applications for funding under the Animal Welfare Grants Programme from registered animal welfare charities in Ireland. In launching the call for applications, the Minister said:

"Animal welfare is a priority for my Department and for the Government. The annual Animal Welfare Grants Programme is a strong signal of my commitment to animal welfare and recognises the dedication of so many staff and volunteers engaged in safeguarding animals across Ireland. I am delighted to announce today the opening of the grant application process."

The Minister spoke of his support for animal welfare:

"In recognition of my commitment to animal welfare, in December 2023 I announced the highest ever funding of €6 million to 101 animal welfare charities throughout the country involved in the care, rescuing and rehoming of animals. The awards align with government policy, the Programme for Government and the goals set out in my Department's Animal Welfare Strategy 2021-2025, Working Together for Animal Welfare. The 2024 grants process continues this support, including the promotion by animal welfare charities of responsible pet ownership. Responsibility for the health and welfare of animals lies with their owners and keepers, and charities play a crucial role in raising awareness among the public on this."

In acknowledging the hard work of animal welfare organisations, the Minister stated:

"Ireland has a strong, active charity sector working to improve animal welfare, and I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge their efforts, commitment and dedication to preventing animal welfare issues and protecting and caring for surrendered, abandoned and at-risk animals."

Further details, including the grant application form and the deadline for applications, are available at: www.gov.ie/en/publication/e881c-animal-welfare/#funding-to-animal-welfare-organisations or via email from: [email protected]

ENDS

Photo 1: Minister Charlie McConalogue and Princess the terrier at The Irish Blue Cross clinic in Inchicore.

Photo 2: Minister Charlie McConalogue with Ciara Sweeney, Vet Surgeon with The Irish Blue Cross and Chris Conneely CEO of The Irish Blue Cross at The Irish Blue Cross clinic in Inchicore.

Notes for Editors:

The Irish Blue Cross are a charity organisation, based in Inchicore, Dublin. They provide veterinary clinic and mobile veterinary services to eligible individuals who may not have the financials means to provide veterinary care and surgery for their pets. They were established in 1945. Their clinical team receive thousands of pet visits each year covering all aspects of veterinary care including health-checks, x-rays, blood tests, microchipping, neutering and other surgical procedures.

In 2023, The Irish Blue Cross were granted €480,313 by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine to support their services.