Financial support considered for greyhound trainers and owners when industry ends
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Financial support is under consideration for greyhound trainers and owners liable for the likely 1500 dogs still under their care after the industry ends.
In December the government
announced the practice would be banned in New Zealand
after ongoing concerns about animal welfare and three reviews into the industry.
After the change was decided a ministerial advisory committee was set up to plan a transition away from greyhound racing.
That group has delivered an interim report to ministers which found the current rehoming programme will require reorganisation and expansion to find safe homes for the estimated 1500 dogs remaining when racing was due to end on 31 July next year.
The committee acknowledged the concern of owners and trainers about the financial liability of feeding and caring for dogs once racing ended.
As part of cabinet's considerations financial compensation would be considered.
Racing Minister Winston Peters said he was fully aware of the impact that ending greyhound racing would have on those involved in the industry.
Peters appreciated the feedback owners, trainers and other stakeholders had given the committee.
"That is why it is important that we consider everything carefully."
He said the imperative to see the ban through continued, with 15 racing greyhounds having to be euthanized so far this season and nearly a further 200 dogs suffering serious injuries keeping them out of racing for weeks and months.
The intention was to introduce legislation and members of the industry, and the wider public would get the chance to make submissions to the select committee as part of the process, he said.
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