Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is also important to note that the programme for Government includes a commitment to promote responsible pet ownership. In speaking about the period after Christmas, the Deputy makes a valid point. This commitment is being advanced by cross-divisional co-ordination within the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine on various aspects relating to pet ownership. A multi-stakeholder council, the advisory council on companion animal welfare, has met on three occasions this year already. It includes non-governmental organisations, individuals and professionals with a diverse range of skill sets and expertise and is to advise the Minister on matters relating to companion animals. The council will continue to provide him with expert advice on companion animal issues, including guidance on policymaking regarding the welfare of canines.

The Minister has asked me to make it known that he strongly acknowledges the work of the dedicated officials in his Department on animal welfare and the authorised officers in other organisations with whom they frequently co-operate, including An Garda Síochána, the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, ISPCA, the Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, DSPCA, and customs officials, in enforcing animal welfare legislation. The Government will continue to place the highest priority on animal welfare. I commend again the tremendous work done by those who work for charities.

As I mentioned, the Minister intends to deliver on the programme for Government commitment to further increase the funding allocated via the grants programme in 2022. Further details of these awards will be announced next month. I will take the various points the Deputy made in his contribution back to the Minister, Deputy McConalogue, and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. If they have any outstanding queries, I am sure they will revert to the Deputy in respect of them.

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