The Irish Government’s 2026 budget controversially allocates nearly €100 million to the horse and greyhound racing industries, with €79.3 million going to Horse Racing Ireland and €19.82 million to the greyhound sector. This funding level remains consistent with 2025, despite ongoing concerns about greyhound welfare, including past exposés revealing widespread abuse and culling practices. While the racing industries receive substantial support, animal welfare organizations received only €6 million last year, a figure unlikely to increase, sparking outrage among advocates who highlight the stark disparity in funding and the growing strain on welfare groups.

Animal welfare leaders, including the CEO of the merged ISPCA and DSPCA, have condemned the budget, emphasizing the critical state of animal welfare services and the inadequate government support they receive. They criticize the continued financial backing of industries linked to welfare abuses, especially the greyhound sector, which faces global track closures due to such concerns. The budget’s allocation reflects a significant imbalance, with animal charities receiving just 6% of the funding awarded to the racing industries, intensifying calls for greater government attention to animal welfare issues.