Senedd votes to ban Greyhound racing in Wales to protect animal welfare

The Senedd has today voted in favour of protecting greyhounds in Wales from the harms of racing. The Bill will prohibit greyhound racing in Wales.  

 A transition period to allow the industry to wind down responsibly, strengthen rehoming arrangements for retired greyhounds, and prepare enforcement bodies and local authorities for the change which will see the prohibition brought into effect between 1 April 2027 and 1 April 2030. 

The Bill reflects a clear policy choice: that the injuries, fatalities, and poor post-racing outcomes associated with greyhound racing can no longer be justified. Despite efforts within the industry, harm to greyhounds has remained a consistent reality. 

Huw Irranca-Davies, Deputy First Minister with responsibility for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, said: "Wales is a progressive nation, committed to ethical standards and forward-thinking legislation. This Bill strengthens our reputation as a leader on animal welfare and delivers the standards that the people of Wales rightly expect." 

Thousands of members of the public, campaigners, and stakeholders contributed to shaping this legislation through campaigns, petitions, and personal testimony. Their voices have been central to its development.