The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) has urged the Ekurhuleni Metro to review the funding it allocates to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) to increase support for animal care.
Every year, the Metro allocates R5,2 million to the nine SPCA branches in Ekurhuleni, so, each branch receives less than R500 000 annually to care for an ever-increasing number of animals.
Moreover, the amount has not been adjusted over the last few years to keep up with rising costs. The funds are insufficient to cover the work done in communities, forcing individual branches to rely on private donors and fundraising initiatives to generate income.
SPCA staff also provide extensive training on animal care at schools and in communities.
The SPCA in Ekurhuleni spends over R7,5 million on salaries and wages annually, R1,1 million on utility bills, R1,7 million on vehicle maintenance and bank loans, and R500 000 on building maintenance.
The various SPCA branches treat more than 30 000 animals per year, excluding farm animals and exotic species.
The party also requested the Metro to ensure that, once funds are approved, they are promptly transferred to the SPCA. The organisation often has to wait for months before receiving funding.
The SPCA plays a vital role in animal care and if the Metro does not increase its funding, some branches may face closure.
The Freedom Front Plus will continue to pressure the Metro to make annual adjustments to its SPCA funding in the budget.
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