Increased funding for greyhound racing is a ‘retrograde’ step for animal welfare, says TD Cairns

Despite lack of public support and cruelty concerns, the Government continues to prop up the greyhound racing industry, says Social Democrats TD Holly Cairns.

Deputy Cairns was speaking ahead of today’s Dáil motion proposing approval of the Horse and Greyhound Funding Regulations.

Budget 2023 allocated €18.2 million to Greyhound Racing Ireland, an increase of €600,000 on the previous year.

“It is deeply disappointing to see this dying industry being propped up by the Government,” Deputy Cairns said.

“Greyhound racing is in terminal decline, both here and internationally.

“It does not enjoy public support and has seen a sharp drop in attendances at race meetings.

“Irish people are recognising that this is a cruel industry which has no place in modern society.”

Deputy Cairns says the “over-breeding of dogs continues to be a major concern”.

“A recent report by the Oireachtas Agriculture Committee noted that there is virtually no oversight or transparency regarding canine artificial insemination.

“The reality is that the greyhound racing sector is being kept on life support through State funding and would otherwise be unable to stand on its own feet financially.

“By comparison, organisations such as Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind and Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland only get a tiny fraction of the amount allocated to greyhound racing.

“I will continue to strenuously oppose State funding for greyhound racing, which is not in the public interest and represents a retrograde step for animal welfare in Ireland.”