Greyhounds Australasia (GA) Chief executive Scott Parker today welcomed the NSW government’s decision to overturn its ban on greyhound racing.
“The national greyhound racing industry is extremely pleased that the NSW government has listened to participants and the community and taken the decision to allow greyhound racing to continue.
“It is a huge relief for the many thousands of great people whose lives revolve around caring for their greyhounds and watching them indulge their innate desire to chase.
“The decision to ban greyhound racing was hasty and ill-considered. It is appropriate that the NSW Premier Mike Baird admitted he got it wrong when he announced a ban before any consultation with industry or debate in parliament as recommended by Commissioner McHugh.
“I am very pleased that the Head of the Transition Taskforce Dr Keniry reported to the Premier that, in his opinion, NSW participants were ready to support industry reform. The NSW industry is very aware that it needs to continue to change to meet the community’s expectations about how well it cares for its greyhounds before, during and after their racing careers.
“Every greyhound racing jurisdiction in the country is now progressing towards full rehoming of all greyhounds whelped where those dogs are healthy and capable of being re-homed.
“The industry looks forward to appropriate representation on the new Greyhound Reform Advisory Panel to make sure the next round of reforms contribute to a sustainable future noted for its greyhound welfare excellence,” Mr Parker said.
