The NSW government must be accountable for improvements in greyhound welfare after reversing its decision to shut down the greyhound racing industry.
“The Premier made a commitment to greyhound welfare in July, and that commitment should be honoured,” said Dr David Neck, spokesperson for the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA).
“The NSW government must ensure the greyhound industry adheres to the highest possible standards, and commit adequate financial and human resources to the task.
“The first step is for the government to implement and fully fund the recommendations of the McHugh report, starting with the recommendations for truly independent regulation, separate from the commercial and operational aspects of the industry. We need a truly independent system that allows veterinarians to proactively speak out and improve greyhound welfare.
“It’s not good enough to only go halfway. The government really needs to demonstrate its commitment to fixing the problems highlighted by Justice McHugh, and making sure there is enough money to fund them.
“The veterinary profession will be watching closely, and will be actively involved in delivering better welfare for racing greyhounds. From a strategic level through to the policy and on-track aspects of the industry, veterinarians will be more involved than ever, and speaking out against poor welfare wherever they find it.
“We look forward to working with the government and the industry so that the welfare issues in this industry are a thing of the past,” Dr Neck said.
