THE Irish Horse Welfare Trust is among the biggest beneficiaries of funding announced by Minister for Agriculture, Martin Heydon TD, to 94 animal welfare charities nationwide this December. The Minister has announced a total allocation of €6,434,803 - the highest ever.

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.”

Among the equine-related charities to receive funding is The Donkey Sanctuary, which was allocated €320,000. They are the second largest beneficiary behind the National SPCA (Dublin), who got €2,606,825. Fifth on the list is the Irish Horse Welfare Trust (€136,900), while the Longford-based equine charity Hungry Horse Outside received €100,000.

My Lovely Horse Animal Rescue (Kildare) are in receipt of €90,000; the Leinster Horse and Pony Rescue (Meath) were allocated €22,150; there is €20,000 for the Irish Horse Rehoming Programme (Carlow), €18,000 for Forgotten Horses Ireland (Galway) and €11,175 for Cappanagarrane Horse Rescue (Tipperary).