Malcolm Byrne (Wicklow-Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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384. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the supports which will continue to be made available to a facility (details supplied); the action being taken on a recent complaint by the facility against an inspection; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52915/25]

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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Animal welfare is a key priority for me, as Minister, and for the Government. The Animal Welfare Grants Programme provides considerable support for animal welfare charities to assist them in their vital work in rescuing and re-homing animals. In November 2024, funding of almost €6 million was provided to 101 animal welfare charities nationwide including an award of €6,175 to the organisation in question.

Awards are made on the basis of objective criteria which are reviewed on an annual basis. These include the level and type of assistance provided by the organisation in the delivery of care and welfare services to animals and the level of funding raised by organisations from other sources to support welfare activities. Throughput of animals and re-homing figures are assessed along with veterinary inspection of the premises.

I can confirm that an application from the organisation has been received.

I expect to make an announcement on awards before year end.

I understand my Department is liaising directly with the applicant regarding the complaint submitted.