Jennifer Whitmore (Wicklow, Social Democrats)
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162. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide details on the level of support and funding allocated to dog rescues and shelters in 2025; if he is satisfied that these organisations have sufficient resources to meet demand; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [65978/25]

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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My Department takes the matter of animal welfare most seriously and is committed to the enforcement of the Animal Health and Welfare Act, 2013.

I would like to acknowledge the important work carried out, often in very challenging circumstances, by animal welfare organisations and their dedicated volunteers and staff across Ireland.

Animal welfare charities play a crucial role in helping animals in need, educating people, and raising public awareness about improving animal welfare.

Last year €6 million of funding was provided to 101 animal welfare charities nationwide, through the animal welfare grant programme.

These awards also support the provision of education and knowledge sharing to the public on animal welfare and responsible pet ownership, helping to raise animal welfare standards.

The 2025 Animal Welfare grants process is underway, with applications currently under assessment by my Department and I expect to announce the results of the application process in December.