Byrne welcomes funding for local animal care and welfare organisations

Fine Gael Dublin South Central TD, Catherine Byrne has today (Friday) welcomed the announcement of funding for animal care and welfare organisations in Inchicore and Rialto. Minister for Agriculture, Simon Coveney TD, announced   €1.8m in funding to 136 organisations, three of which are in Dublin South Central; the Irish Blue Cross in the Goldenbridge Industrial Estate; St. Francis Dispensary, on Tyrconnell Road; and Petwatch Ltd, in Rialto.

“I am very pleased at the announcement of these grants for animal welfare organisations in Rialto and Inchicore. The Irish Blue Cross is to receive €68,400; St Francis Dispensary for Sick and Injured Animals have been granted €9,600; and Petwatch Ltd are to receive €6,300.

“I also welcome the fact that as part of the allocation of funds, Minister Coveney has reiterated the need for animal welfare bodies to adhere to good practice. An updated Code of Practice is being provided to every recipient of aid to assist them in the promotion of sound management practices and in achieving high standards of animal welfare.

“These grants are important sources of funding for organisations doing very valuable work in our community. Animal welfare charities face particular demands on their services at this time of year, as pets given as gifts are often abandoned in the New Year. I urge people to remember that a pet is not just for Christmas, it is for life. I also strongly recommend that pet owners access these organisations if they are struggling to care for their pet, and cannot meet the cost of veterinary care or pet food. These local organisations are on hand with assistance and helpful advice, and the grants announced today will go a long way towards maintaining these valuable services.”

ENDS