Greens respond to dismissal of greyhound trainers

Commenting on the news that Racing Queensland has stood down another 23 greyhound trainers in the wake of the live baiting scandal last month, Greens Animal Welfare Spokesperson Senator Lee Rhiannon said:

“The dismissal of another 23 trainers exposes the degree of animal abuse and the crisis that is gripping the greyhound industry.

“This comes after 13 Queensland greyhound trainers were stood down following a Four Corners program last month which showed footage of live baiting at Tom Noble’s unregistered training property in Churchable about 55km west of Brisbane.

“The dismissals show that further investigations into the industry are needed. The Greens join animal protection groups in calling on all state racing bodies to instigate life bans on individuals found guilty of live baiting, and for specialist government task forces to take over the regulation of the industry.

“The Greens also support calls for the immediate suspension of all government funding and industry incentive schemes.

“Clearly, the self-regulation of the greyhound industry must end. 

“The Greens will continue to campaign with animal rights groups in support of our bill for an Independent Office of Animal Welfare. An independent office is crucial to ending the cruel and degrading treatment of animals,” said Senator Rhiannon.