Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is probably no secret that I am not a fan of animals in circuses, but that does not mean I will outlaw it. This is an animal welfare issue that the Deputy has raised. Of course, I will meet with representatives of the Irish Seal Sanctuary and we can be helpful to them in terms of funding through ex gratia payments, as we are with many other animal welfare organisations. We spend almost €2 million per year on animal welfare organisations. It is not for funding for the organisations but is essentially a top-up fund through ex gratia payments to support them in their activities. This year we have prioritised horse welfare for obvious reasons, and the Deputy will be familiar with those. This is an area that I will happily be helpful on if that is possible. I will also happily meet the Deputy with the Irish Seal Sanctuary, if she wishes.

I am sorry I did not specifically refer to circuses in my response. I should have because it was mentioned in the Deputy's question. However, I will certainly follow up on the matter in more detail if the Deputy wishes.

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