There was a strong welcome from a number of politicians for funding for four animal welfare groups in the county which was announced this week. Michelle Mulherin TD said: “I am delighted that the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food Deputy Simon Coveney, has confirmed that his Department has awarded funding totalling €46,400 to Mayo-based animal welfare organisations. The successful organisations are the North West SPCA, which was awarded €26,600, Mayo Animal Welfare, awarded €3,000, Mayo SPCA €9,800, and Ainmhithe Animal Rescue, which was awarded €7,000. These are the foremost west of Ireland-based organisations delivering animal care and welfare services and their importance is recognised by today’s decision.”
Minister of State Michael Ring said: “The level of funding being provided to organisations has increased for the third year in a row, reflecting the importance of the work of these organisations and the overall welfare of animals. 2013 has been a challenging and demanding year for animal welfare organisations, and recent reports of animal cruelty have highlighted the need to assist animal welfare organisations in their work.”
John O’Mahony TD welcomed the funding and said: “I am delighted that Minister Coveney is able to provide support to these Mayo organisations by way of a grant to assist in their very important work and care of animals. The Department of Agriculture has worked very closely with welfare organisations, local authorities, and the Gardai to intervene in cases of animal neglect or cruelty and we will continue to do so. It is not acceptable that there are instances where animals gifted at Christmas time for example are frequently abandoned by their new owners and, in these situations, the work of animal welfare organisations continues to play a very important role in protecting Ireland’s reputation as an animal caring nation.”
