Date: 12 January 2022
Deputy Steven Matthews was speaking following the announcement of record funding for Wicklow based animal welfare charities by Green Party Minister – Pippa Hackett and the Department of Agriculture. Discussing the news, Deputy Matthews said:
“The funding announcement of €208,500 that will be allocated to animal welfare charities across Wicklow in 2022 is extremely welcome. This is the largest amount of state funding that has ever been designated for animal welfare organisations in the county and represents a 15.5% increase on 2021 funding levels and a 31% increase on 2020 funding levels.
“The awards have been allocated based on the policies, objectives and priorities outlined in Ireland’s first Animal Welfare Strategy 2021-2025. This funding will support animal welfare organisations and individual volunteers to continue their crucial work addressing animal cruelty and promoting the interests of vulnerable animals. The Government recognises the massive contribution of these organisations to animal welfare and the challenges that they have faced during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The funding provisions are as follows:
• Wicklow SPCA, Ballygannon Mor, Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow - €75,000
• Irish Horse Welfare Trust, Ballinamona, Arklow, Co. Wicklow - €94,000
• Arklow Cat Rescue, 14 Rory O'Connor, Arklow, Co Wicklow - €2,500
• Ash Animal Rescue, Rathdangan, Kiltegan, Co. Wicklow - €37,000
“Both as a County Councillor and now as a TD, I have been fortunate enough to see the incredible work that these animal welfare organisations do on the ground and I know that this funding will be put to good use.
“Animal welfare is a priority for the Green Party, and we have always led on this issue. I am delighted to see these significant increases in funding for animal welfare organisations since we entered Government in the summer of 2020, in addition to other reforms such as the passage of legislation to phase out fur-farming.
“The Green Party will continue to implement the animal welfare commitments of the Programme for Government. I look forward to working alongside my colleague, Minister Pippa Hackett and engaging closely with animal welfare organisations as we strive to improve Ireland’s record on animal welfare in the coming years.
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