Cork Senator calls for more state funding for service dogs

A Cork senator has called for government funding for service dog providers in Ireland to be introduced.

Speaking in the Seanad, Cork Fine Gael Senator Eileen Lynch described that service dog providers in Ireland are largely self-funded through fundraising and donations.

She added that service dogs are not consistently recognised across disability policy documents and funding models, which she states leaves a critical support unaccounted for.

Ms Lynch said: “There are many critical issues we need to address. First and foremost is the lack of funding. Service dog training and placement costs range from €15,000 to €38,000, depending on which of the three groups we are dealing with.

“While Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind does receive some State funding, as I have mentioned, My Canine Companion receives zero, as does Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland. They are completely self-funded through fundraising and donations. This is both unsustainable and inequitable.

 “This is a blind spot we must address and investing in service dogs is not just about compassion. It is about rights and efficiency and it is also about fairness.” 

My Lynch continued by referring to how My Canine Companion has 91 active service dogs, but has received 360 expressions of interest and they cannot currently meet that demand.

Ms Lynch added: “I am seeking the establishment of a dedicated service dog support fund designed to cofund the training, placement and support of accredited service dogs in partnership with not-for-profit providers.

“It is clear that State funding is needed to increase the capacity of organisations to provide assistance dogs to autistic people. 

“There is a knock on effect from the lack of funding. There are issues with limited supply and long waiting lists. Service dog providers are unable to meet the growing demand and waiting lists are often two to three years long, during which time individuals are left without the support.”