New Zealand has revealed intentions to prohibit greyhound racing, pointing to an “unacceptably high” incidence of injuries as the primary concern.
The sport has been under scrutiny in the country for an extended period as allegations have emerged regarding the mistreatment and doping of animals by certain breeders.
The government has announced its intention to phase out the industry within 20 months. This timeline is designed to facilitate the rehoming of racing dogs and provide individuals in the sector with the opportunity to transition to alternative employment.
In addition to New Zealand, commercial greyhound racing is permitted in several countries, including Australia, Ireland, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
“Racing Minister Winston Peters stated on Tuesday that, despite notable advancements within the greyhound racing industry, the rate of injuries among dogs continues to be alarmingly high, prompting a necessary call to action in favor of the animal’s welfare.”
“This decision has not been made lightly; it is fundamentally motivated by the need to safeguard the welfare of racing dogs,” he stated.
On Tuesday, the government unveiled a bill aimed at curbing the unnecessary euthanasia of racing dogs. Deputy Prime Minister Peters stated that the legislation “will be passed under urgency.”
He announced that additional legislation would be introduced to facilitate the cessation of greyhound racing.
Over the last ten years, the greyhound racing industry has undergone three reviews, each advocating for substantial reforms.
Local media reports indicate that in 2021, 232 racing greyhounds lost their lives, while 900 others sustained injuries.
In September of that year, the government issued a warning to the industry, yet fatalities and injuries persisted. The animal rights organization Safe reported over 2,500 injuries and close to 30 fatalities in the two-and-a-half years that ensued.
The urgent focus now shifts to finding new homes for approximately 2,900 racing greyhounds in the country.
Animal rights organizations that have persistently advocated for the closure of the industry expressed their approval following Tuesday’s announcement, with Safe describing it as a “monumental win for animal rights.”
New Zealand’s oldest animal welfare charity, SPCA, expressed excitement over the recent decision and urged other nations that permit greyhound racing to take similar action.
Greyhound Racing New Zealand, an industry association representing greyhound racing clubs nationwide, expressed its “devastation” in response to the government’s proposal.
“The announcement has sent shockwaves through the greyhound racing community, with numerous voices expressing worries about the cultural and economic gap this decision may leave behind,” stated the association’s chairman, Sean Hannan.
According to recent data, greyhound racing represents 8.5% of New Zealand’s NZ$1.3 billion (approximately $760 million or £595) racing industry, supporting just over 1,000 full-time jobs.
“The government’s decision to close the industry has sparked significant disappointment, as it fails to acknowledge the substantial progress that has been made,” stated Hannan, who called on the government to rethink its choice.
