The Department of Agriculture has awarded €3.2m in funding to 101 animal welfare organisations throughout the country involved in protecting animals, Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue has confirmed.

These awards mark the largest allocation of funding to animal welfare bodies on record by the Department.

Minister McConalogue reiterated his commitment to reviewing underlying policy objectives, with a view to doubling the funding available within two years.

Tireless work

The Minister acknowledged the people who work tirelessly across the country to protect animal welfare.

“We are particularly fortunate in Ireland to have a strong, active voluntary sector dedicated to animal welfare.

“The staff and volunteers from the organisations in receipt of today’s funding in every county across Ireland show incredible commitment to protecting and caring for surrendered, abandoned and at-risk animals.”

Tribute was also paid to the work being undertaken by the DSPCA and the ISPCA officers.

Minister McConalogue continued: “These charities’ authorised officers play a vital role in implementing the Animal Health and Welfare Act, delivering on Government commitment to robust enforcement.

“Great credit must also go to the smaller, local organisations, who do invaluable work. Everyone in the rescue sector is contributing to improved animal welfare in their own way.’’