Bill to Ban Greyhound Racing Introduced to Parliament
On the 23rd of April, we were thrilled to stand as part of the Unbound the Greyhound coalition to support MSP Mark Ruskell’s introduction of the Bill to make it an offence to race greyhounds in Scotland.
The Unbound the Greyhound coalition along with MSP Mark Ruskell and Dr. Marc Abraham, vet and animal welfare advocate.
The Bill has received incredible support, with the eyes of those from around the world watching closely, hoping Scotland will join New Zealand and Wales in putting an end to greyhound racing. With each country that seeks to end the cruel “sport” of greyhound racing, a precedent is set for greyhound racing becoming a thing of the past on a global scale.
Public Support Needed to Push the Bill Through
The Bill now needs a majority of MSPs to support it, and that’s where the public can help. MSPs work for the people, so we’re asking everyone in Scotland to join us in writing letters to their MSPs, asking them to back the Bill to put an end to greyhound racing in Scotland.
Global Citizens Can Also Help
We want the Scottish Government to know that all eyes are watching, hoping that the right decision will be made, so we’re encouraging people from around the globe to write to Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity, Jim Fairlie, urging him to support this important Bill. Every single voice matters, as the abuse greyhounds are subjected to by the racing industry is a global concern.
Next Steps
Having been introduced to Parliament, the Bill will now be closely examined by a lead committee such as the Rural Affairs and Islands Committee.
A report will be written following a process of hearing from a variety of experts, organisations, and the public on what the aims of the Bill are and why its important. The report will reflect the evidence heard and the committee’s opinion on the Bill, followed by recommending whether Parliament should support it. This process, known as Stage 1, can take a few months.
It has been a long time campaigning against the cruelty of racing greyhounds, and with this Bill we hope to see the sun set on the industry forever.