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A Wales-wide ban on greyhound racing has moved a step closer.
A draft version of legislation banning the sport has been published by Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies.
The Prohibition of Greyhound Racing (Wales) Bill would make it an offence to be involved in organising greyhound racing in Wales, or to operate a track or stadium hosting races.
The draft legislation has been published to give Senedd Members and stakeholders a chance to review it ahead of its formal introduction this autumn.
The ban is expected to be introduced sometime between 2027 and 2030.
Work on the Bill is still ongoing, and there may be changes before it is introduced to the Senedd.
Mr Irranca-Davies said: “I look forward to working with Senedd Members on the provisions of the Bill during scrutiny, after the Bill is introduced in the autumn.”
In July, an ‘implementation group’ was set up by the Deputy First Minister, comprising of individuals from animal health and welfare groups, social and community sectors, and from the greyhound racing industry.
The group is spearheaded by its chair, Dr Emily Blackwell, a senior lecturer in Animal Behaviour and Welfare at Bristol Vet School.
Mr Irranca-Davies added: “We want Wales to be an exemplar for the highest standards of animal health and welfare.
“The ban is one way we can work towards meeting that goal, and the implementation group has a key role to play.
“Its combined knowledge will help us as we progress with this important work.”
However, Mark Bird, CEO of the Greyhound Board of Great Britain, criticised Mr Irranca-Davies’ statement.
Mr Bird said: “This latest statement from the Deputy First Minister and draft Bill, published during Senedd recess, is yet another indication that the Welsh Government is determined to rush through a ban on greyhound racing – no matter the cost.
“The implementation group has not reported on its work, nor has any impact assessment been published.
“It is hard to fathom how Welsh ministers and officials can think that this draft Bill should be a priority for the Welsh Senedd and deemed more important than the lives, homes, incomes and health of the Welsh people.”
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