Members of the Senedd join ‘Cut the Chase’ coalition in support of an end to greyhound racing in Wales
Members of the Senedd joined the ‘Cut the Chase’ coalition and ex racing greyhounds on Tuesday 6 February, to show their support for a phased end to greyhound racing in Wales.
21 MSs took part in a photocall and talked with members of the coalition which is made up of the RSPCA, Dogs Trust, Blue Cross, Hope Rescue and Greyhound Rescue Wales.
Becky Thwaites, Blue Cross Head of Public Affairs said: “We were delighted to see so many Members join us to support an end to greyhound racing in Wales. We are hoping Wales will be the first nation in the UK to phase out the activity, ending the suffering, injuries and death currently facing racing greyhounds.”
On 8 December 2023 the Welsh Government launched a 12-week consultation that will consider the future of greyhound racing. Wales is one of only ten countries in the world - including all other UK nations - where greyhound racing continues in 2024.
Commenting, Mid and West Wales MS Jane Dodds said: “It was a pleasure to attend today’s event to raise awareness around the dangers of greyhound racing in Wales. It was lovely to meet the rescued greyhounds, who have all gone through such unnecessary hardship. Fortunately for these animals their days on the track are behind them, and now they can look forward to a better and healthier life.
Unfortunately, there are still hundreds of dogs who are being forced to race against each other in dangerous conditions. We are a nation that cares for our animals and as such sports like this have no place in Wales. This is why I am very proud to back the campaign to ban this cruel industry here in Wales.”
The only remaining racing track in Wales was previously an unlicensed, 'flapping' track, but last year fell under the auspices of the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB), making it the first licensed greyhound track in Wales in 40 years.
The Cut the Chase Coalition does not believe that industry self-regulation is compatible with protecting the welfare of greyhounds - and, since the track was granted a licence by GBGB, animal welfare groups have continued to express concerns about the welfare of dogs competing.
Members of the Cut the Chase Coalition have been concerned about the welfare of greyhounds involved in racing for many years and have long been committed to engaging with the industry to secure improvements to the welfare of racing greyhounds.
However, despite many years of joint working, there remains significant welfare issues for greyhounds throughout their racing careers which have not been resolved, and which we do not believe can be resolved.
