Kennel Improvement Scheme

Greyhound Racing Ireland Announce Details For Kennel Improvement Scheme for 2024

Greyhound Racing Ireland (GRI) have announced the details for the Kennel Improvement Scheme for 2024. Originally introduced in July 2022, the scheme aims to enhance the welfare standards and conditions within greyhound kennels across the country. GRI invites all eligible applicants to apply for the third year of the scheme. A fund of €100,000 has been set aside for improvements and the fund will close to new applicants once it has been allocated.

Applicants must ensure full compliance with GRI rules and regulations, along with adhering to all welfare notices in their entirety. It is essential to note that grant monies cannot be utilised to rectify faults in kennels where improvement notices have been issued subsequent to an inspection by a GRI welfare officer.

To apply, interested parties must complete the official application form available at the end of this page. All applicants are reminded to review all accompanying documents to confirm eligibility and satisfy the conditions of the scheme.

"We are pleased to re-launch the Kennel Improvement Scheme for 2024," stated Director of Veterinary Services Pat Meskell at Greyhound Racing Ireland. "This initiative underscores our ongoing commitment to promoting the welfare of greyhounds and maintaining high standards within the industry. We encourage all eligible individuals to take advantage of this opportunity and submit their applications promptly as once the fund has been allocated it will close for 2024."

Terms and Conditions and application forms for the Kennel Improvement Scheme can be downloaded from www.grireland.ie/kennelimprovement

Kennel Improvement Scheme Announcement 

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INTRODUCTION

The Board of RCE recognise that, heretofore, the main method of distribution of funding through the greyhound racing industry, has been prizemoney. The Kennel Improvement Scheme was devised to ensure money is available to the greyhound Industry to assist in the modernisation and ongoing improvement of the surroundings within which greyhounds are kept, with a view to improving the welfare of these animals

BACKGROUND

The Board of RCE has taken the decision to assist the greyhound industry in accepting applications for funding to subsidise construction works which are necessary to improve the welfare of the greyhounds residing there. RCE proposes that on receipt of a successful application that it will assist the applicant with a contribute up to 75% of the cost to a maximum of €2,500. The Board has ringfenced €100,000 per annum for this project and once the initial fund has been allocated, applications will be suspended until the following year.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the Scheme is to assist in the development and improvement of existing kennelling facilities within which greyhounds are kept in the Republic of Ireland. The objective is not merely to facilitate the expansion of existing kennels.

APPLICATION

The application process will involve at least one visit from an independent RCE Welfare Officer. Premises applying for the Scheme must be in the Republic of Ireland.

The works may be to address issues which are highlighted during welfare inspections. Any works requiring planning permission will need to furnish that number as part of that application.

Works that require independent certification by an engineer vis a vis planning permission compliance will need to indicate so and details of Engineer Certificate will need to be submitted. A second visit by the welfare officer will be required to certify that works have been completed. Any works must be completed by independent contractors who are VAT registered and proof of payment must be demonstrated.

KENNEL IMPROVEMENT SCHEME

APPLICATION FORM - KENNEL IMPROVEMENT SCHEME

CONDITIONS - KENNEL IMPROVEMENT SCHEME