Record animal welfare funding welcomed for Kilkenny and Carlow organisations

Local animal welfare organisations in Kilkenny and Carlow are set to benefit from a record national funding allocation announced by the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon.

A total of €6,434,803 has been awarded to 94 animal welfare charities nationwide under the Animal Welfare Grants Programme — the highest level of funding ever provided through the scheme.

Welcoming the announcement, Cllr Andrew McGuinness, Chairman of Kilkenny’s Animal Welfare Committee, said the funding was particularly significant for organisations working on the ground in Kilkenny and Carlow.

“I’m delighted to see local organisations recognised for the extraordinary work they do every day,” he said. “This funding will make a real difference to animal welfare in our communities.”
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Among the successful local recipients are:
Irish Horse Rehoming Programme, County Carlow, which has been awarded €20,000;
Kilkenny SPCA, awarded €24,650;
A Dogs Life, Kilkenny, awarded €5,000.

Councillor McGuinness said the funding was a deserved acknowledgment of the dedication shown by staff and volunteers, often in challenging circumstances.

“These organisations consistently go above and beyond,” he said. “They care for vulnerable animals, educate the public, promote responsible ownership and work tirelessly to ensure animals are given a second chance at life.”

He added that, in his role as Chair of Kilkenny’s Animal Welfare Committee, he sees first-hand the impact these groups have locally.

“The commitment shown by volunteers and staff is remarkable,” he said. “This funding recognises not just their compassion, but their proven track record in delivering positive outcomes for animal welfare.”

He concluded by welcoming the overall scale of the funding announcement.

“This record investment sends a strong message about the importance of animal welfare in Ireland,” he said. “I’m proud that organisations in Kilkenny and Carlow are playing such a positive role in setting standards nationally.”