USPCA Welcomes Greyhound Racing Ban in New Zealand; Calls on Northern Ireland Executive to Follow Suit
USPCA Welcomes Greyhound Racing Ban in New Zealand; Calls on Northern Ireland Executive to Follow Suit
Belfast, Northern Ireland – The Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (USPCA) today expressed its wholehearted support for New Zealand’s recent decision to ban greyhound racing, calling it a landmark victory for animal welfare. The USPCA is now urging the Northern Ireland Executive to adopt similar measures and bring an end to the controversial practice in Northern Ireland.
New Zealand’s ban on greyhound racing, announced this week, marks a significant step forward in the global movement to protect greyhounds from the inherent cruelty of the racing industry. The decision comes after years of investigations into the treatment of greyhounds, with mounting evidence of widespread abuse, neglect, and even the killing of dogs once they are no longer profitable for racing operators.
The USPCA highlights its concerns over the high incidence of injuries and fatalities among racing dogs. In response to New Zealand’s decision, the USPCA is calling on the Northern Ireland Executive to urgently introduce a similar ban to protect greyhounds from the suffering they endure in the racing industry.
Nora Smith, CEO of the USPCA, said:
“We applaud New Zealand for taking such a brave and compassionate stand to end greyhound racing and put the welfare of animals above profit. This ban sends a powerful message to the world that the suffering of greyhounds cannot be justified for entertainment or financial gain.
We now urge the Northern Ireland Executive to take similar action. Greyhound racing continues to be a cruel industry here, where animals are subjected to serious injuries, neglect, and, far too often, premature death. It is time for Northern Ireland to make the compassionate choice and ban greyhound racing for good.”
Greyhound racing industry has been under scrutiny for years, with investigations revealing widespread abuse, including the mass euthanasia of retired racing dogs. Despite previous attempts to reform the industry, authorities have found that the welfare of greyhounds could not be guaranteed under the current system. As a result New Zealand introduced the ban which will come into effect over the next 20 months marking the end of a contentious chapter in animal welfare.
The USPCA remains committed to ensuring the rights and welfare of animals in Northern Ireland, and the society is prepared to work alongside local government officials, animal welfare advocates, and the general public to make greyhound racing history.
Hear more from our CEO on Good Morning Ulster (58:29 onwards): https://buff.ly/4gujHLa
