TasRacing and the Rockliff Government have wisely walked away from spending tens of millions of dollars on a new greyhound racetrack in Devonport.
Sentient animals still suffer every day as a result of this irredeemably cruel industry, but this decision is a sign of an industry in decline and ultimately good news for greyhounds.
On behalf of the Greens, I warmly thank the local community members who fought this development hard and won. That takes real courage and commitment.
There was never any justification for spending $40million or more on a new track to perpetuate animal cruelty, just as there’s no meaningful justification for government to keep subsidising this cruel, increasingly unpopular industry.
Two weeks ago, the Greens tabled our first Legislative Council petition. It was signed by more than 3600 Tasmanians who acknowledge the horrific rate of on and off track injuries and euthanasia, and want Parliament to examine the Deed which subsidises the industry.
Cancellation of the Devonport track plans is just one more nail in the casket of a dying industry.
Greyhound lovers, animal welfare organisations, the Greens and committed Independents will keep up the fight to end greyhound racing.
