Bill to ban greyhound racing in Wales introduced to Senedd
Bill to ban greyhound racing in Wales introduced to Senedd
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A landmark piece of legislation to prohibit greyhound racing in Wales has been introduced to the Senedd, marking a decisive step towards ending the practice.
The Prohibition of Greyhound Racing (Wales) Bill follows growing public pressure, including a petition signed by more than 35,000 people and a consultation that received over 1,100 responses.
Evidence submitted highlighted injuries and fatalities among racing greyhounds at Welsh tracks.
If approved, the Bill would create two new offences: operating a stadium or venue in Wales and knowingly permitting its use for greyhound racing, and organising a greyhound race anywhere in the country.
Deputy First Minister with responsibility for Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, said: “We have listened to the public, considered the evidence, and are taking decisive action to prioritise animal welfare.
“The harm from greyhound racing can no longer be justified in a modern, compassionate Wales.
The Bill provides a flexible implementation timescale to allow time for racing greyhounds, welfare organisations, those involved in the industry, and their local communities, to manage the move away from racing.”
To oversee the transition, the Welsh Government has established an Implementation Group chaired by Dr Emily Blackwell.
The group will work with animal welfare organisations, the greyhound racing industry, and affected communities to manage the phasing out of the sport.
The legislation, if passed, would make Wales the first UK nation to introduce a formal ban on greyhound racing.
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