Minister Heydon announces an increased allocation of €6.4m in grants to 94 animal welfare charities
- Published on: 12 December 2025
- Last updated on: 12 December 2025
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon TD has today, 12 December 2025, announced the allocation of €6,434,803 funding to 94 animal welfare charities nationwide. In recognition of excellent work and the challenges faced by the animal welfare charities this allocation is the highest ever awarded under the Animal Welfare Grants Programme.
Minister Heydon said:
“The welfare of animals continues to be a priority to me and my Department. In this regard, I am delighted to be in a position to provide the highest ever allocation under the grants programme to animal welfare charities throughout the country. I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank the staff and all the volunteers in these organisations for their dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes to animals in their care.”
The funding provided this year continues to reward those organisations that have a proven track record in rehoming, providing education to the public on animal welfare, and guidance to prevent welfare problems in the future.
In advance of the Christmas season, Minister Heydon urged the public to think carefully before getting a pet this Christmas.
"A pet can bring great joy, but with that comes responsibility. Owning and caring for a pet is a major, long-term commitment. New owners should ensure that they source their pet responsibly from a reputable source such as a charity or a reputable breeder.”
