Confirmation Of Commitment Towards Animal Welfare Through An €85,000 Scheme
The Government has once again demonstrated its commitment to animal welfare with the launch of a scheme involving an investment of €85,000. This scheme, which has been renewed for another year, was announced by the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights, Anton Refalo, together with the Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries, Aquaculture and Animal Rights, Alicia Bugeja Said.
With this investment, the scheme is designed to financially support animal welfare organisations, focusing on three main priorities:
Education, Research and Awareness
A total of €25,000 has been allocated to this area, with each organisation eligible to receive up to €3,000. This priority includes:
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Educational workshops and seminars
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Awareness campaigns on animal welfare
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School outreach programmes
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Animal care workshops for volunteers
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Community involvement initiatives
Medical, Food and Care Expenses
A total of €35,000 was allocated for medicinal supplies, food and treatment-related costs, with each organisation eligible to receive up to €5,000.
Rehoming and Transport Services
This priority includes training and expenses related to rehoming services, including transport—whether local or international. A total of €25,000 was allocated here, with organisations eligible to receive up to €2,000.
Minister Anton Refalo remarked, “Proper treatment of animals goes beyond regulation—it involves education, respect and collaboration, all of which are essential pillars for this sector. Today, we’re seeing fifteen non-governmental organisations begin projects focusing on three key areas: education, direct animal care and rehoming efforts. Through this fund, we’re providing direct support to organisations that make a significant impact in our society—those who, through their dedication, give a voice to the voiceless.”
Parliamentary Secretary Alicia Bugeja Said highlighted the scheme’s importance: “This investment reflects the Government’s continued commitment to supporting organisations that work in the interest of animal welfare. Through this scheme, we’re directly funding educational initiatives, medical treatments and rehoming services to ensure a better future for animals in need.”
Joseph John Vella, Director for Animal Welfare, explained that each organisation could apply under more than one priority, but the maximum total grant available per organisation was €8,000. Funding covered 80% of the total project cost, which must be completed within one year of signing the contract.
The scheme was open to non-governmental, non-profit organisations working voluntarily in the field of animal welfare and registered with the Commissioner for Voluntary Organisations.
By the closing date, 18 applications were submitted, with requests ranging from €2,950 to €24,000, amounting to a total of €149,590. At the start of the year, the results were published, and 15 applicants were confirmed as eligible following evaluation by the appointed committee.
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