Wales Makes History with Plans to Ban Greyhound Racing

In a groundbreaking announcement today, Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies revealed plans to ban greyhound racing across Wales, making it the first UK nation to take this significant step.

“I’m pleased to share with the Senedd today that I have seen the strength of feeling on this, and I have listened,” stated Irranca-Davies during his Senedd address.

The decision follows overwhelming public support, with nearly two-thirds of respondents favouring a phased ban in a recent consultation. A petition backing the ban garnered over 35,000 signatures, while prominent animal welfare organisations including Blue Cross, Dogs Trust, and RSPCA voiced their support through the Cut the Chase coalition.

“We are proud to be the first nation in the UK to do this,” the Deputy First Minister emphasised, adding that the ban would be implemented “as soon as practicably possible.”

An Implementation Group will be established to engage with stakeholders and draw insights from other countries, such as New Zealand, which is currently progressing similar legislation.