Public to be asked views on greyhound racing ban in Wales following petition

Animal charity Hope Rescue said it has witnessed "first-hand just how dangerous greyhound racing is Credit: PA

People will be asked their views on whether greyhound racing should be banned in Wales.

It follows a petition which attracted 35,000 signatures calling for a ban, which is believed to be the most signed petition ever in Wales.

A report published last year said the majority of the petitions committee supported a phased ban of greyhound racing and proposed four further recommendations for the Welsh Government.

The petition attracted 35,000 signatures

Lesley Griffiths, who is standing in for First Minister Mark Drakeford while he is on compassionate leave, confirmed support for all but one of the report’s recommendations.

Calling for a ban, the animal charity said it has witnessed "first-hand just how dangerous greyhound racing is, with dogs routinely injured or even killed.

"The industry also deliberately creates thousands of surplus dogs once they finish racing and expect animal welfare organisations to rescue their “wastage”. 

Chair of the petitions committee Jack Sergeant MS said he "welcomes the positive response" and it "grateful to the petitioner Hope Rescue who worked so hard to get so many signatures."

The Committee agreed that the improvement of welfare should be a priority for the entire life of animals - including puppies, racers and dogs in retirement. It also argued this would improve conditions for dogs bred in Wales for racing, as well as those traveling across the country to compete.

There is only one greyhound racing track which currently operates in Wales - The Valley Greyhound Stadium in Ystrad Mynach – with races once a week. 

Mark Bird, CEO of the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB), said they welcome Minister’s statement, which "outlines the importance of regulation of the greyhound racing industry and how this leads to improved welfare standards.

"We will continue to make the case for greyhound racing in Wales to be regulated and subject to the Welfare of Racing Greyhounds Regulations 2010 through registration with the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB)." He said.

"In doing so, we will ensure the welfare of greyhounds is maintained and is strengthened through our own long-term welfare strategy, A Good Life for Every Greyhound."

He added: “Our licensed sport, which places the welfare of greyhounds as its highest priority, welcomes the opportunity to continue our engagement with the Welsh Government and Members of the Senedd on this issue. Any decision must be based on robust evidence and data, and we welcome the opportunity to continue to make the case for improved greyhound welfare through increased regulation." 

Mr Sargeant confirmed the consultation will be launched later this year.