19 January 2026
By Elaine Murphy
elaine@TheCork.ie

Castlewhite House in Waterfall, just south of Cork city, which includes a 3,000 square foot building will be the new HQ for the charity

IDFD assistance dogs provide practical support by performing everyday tasks that mitigate the impact of disability. Founded in 2007, IDFD is the only charity of its kind in Ireland and has placed 500 dogs nationwide, from Cork to Donegal. Each dog costs €15,000 to produce, train, and support, and is provided free of charge thanks to the generosity of the Irish public. Demand remains high, with approximately 30 enquiries each week.

Speaking during the visit, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: “It was a real privilege to be here today and see how far Irish Dogs for the Disabled has come in the last ten
years. The work they do is truly unique and life-changing. Watching the dogs in action,especially Scamp, a trainee assistance dog, and the gorgeous puppies, was impressive. Meeting the children and hearing the personal stories of these partnerships was
inspiring.”

CEO Jennifer Dowler said: “We outgrew our current rented property during Covid as it’s too small and offers no space to train new assistance dog partnerships. My staff have been amazing, but this is a move we’ve waited a decade for. An Taoiseach’s visit was an honour and marks the amazing work we’ve done and the work still ahead of us.”

During the visit, An Taoiseach met some wonderful child partnerships and heard first-hand how their assistance dogs have transformed their lives.

Volunteers and Irish Dogs for the Disabled (IDFD) staff and trainee assistance dogs pictured with An Taoiseach to view what will become the
charity’s new national headquarters and to review plans for the 11.5-acre site
overlooking Cork City, purchased two years ago. This landmark development will
enable IDFD to expand its services and make a greater impact on the lives of children
and adults living with physical disabilities.
Picture: Clare keogh

An Taoiseach pictured with Irish Dogs for the Disabled (IDFD) CEO Jennifer Dowler.
Pictured on his visit to Irish Dogs for the Disabled (IDFD) to view what will become the
charity’s new national headquarters and to review plans for the 11.5-acre site
overlooking Cork City, purchased two years ago. This landmark development will
enable IDFD to expand its services and make a greater impact on the lives of children
and adults living with physical disabilities.
Picture: Clare keogh