Australia: NSW bans greyhound racing after scandal

Greyhound racing will be banned in the Australian state of New South Wales after "horrific" evidence of widespread animal cruelty was uncovered.

A government investigation found overwhelming evidence of animal cruelty, including mass greyhound killings and "live baiting".
The state government said it would work towards a ban from 1 July 2017.

"We are left with no acceptable course of action except to close this industry down," Premier Mike Baird said.

Greyhound racing has enjoyed a resurgence across Australia. Prize money has sky-rocketed and more than £2 billion a year is wagered on races.

"Today is an extremely sad day for the NSW greyhound racing industry and the people involved in it," Greyhound Racing NSW said in a statement.

An ABC Four Corners report aired last year showed piglets, possums and rabbits being chased and killed by dogs in training sessions.

Four Australian states — NSW, Victoria, Queensland and Tasmania — subsequently launched inquiries into greyhound racing.

Dozens of trainers were suspended. Some been banned from ever participating in the sport again and others were charged under animal cruelty laws.

"This day is historic," said RSPCA NSW chief executive Steven Coleman.

"It's monumental. And I can only hope that reverberates around the country."
 

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