2017-04-05
Minister for Racing Martin Pakula announced this week a joint funding package of more than $126,000 to support the Easter School Holidays Kids Program which is being held at ten racing venues across Victoria and hosted by Greyhound Racing Victoria
Victorian Greens spokesperson on Animals, Sue Pennicuik MP said today that it is appalling that the state government and the Minister for Racing should be promoting greyhound racing to children.
“Greyhound Racing is not a fun activity. It is responsible for the killing of thousands of greyhounds in Victoria every year, simply because they don't make money for their owners by winning races. Many others are injured on the track and also euthanised,” Ms Pennicuik said.
“The Greyhound Adoption Program (GAP) is a good program as far as it goes, which isn't very far. GAP goes nowhere near being able to find homes for greyhounds that are not 'suitable for racing' or are 'retired'.
“It is also totally inappropriate for the government and the minister to be encouraging children to attend events that are conducted solely of the purpose of gambling.
“Minister Pakula should be acting on the damning evidence that is so readily available to him and show leadership by ending greyhound racing in Victoria instead of promoting it to children,” Ms Pennicuik said.
For further comment: Sue Pennicuik: 03 9530 8399