TRIUMPH AFTER 25 YEARS! After a relentless and tireless fight against all moves to legalise dog racing over a period of 25 years, the National Council of SPCAs has triumphed. There are no moves to legalise dog racing in South Africa! The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has given a resounding and emphatic NO to legalising dog racing and has given an assurance that it will remain illegal. The NSPCA has thanked the DTI for the statement that no Bill has been proposed and there is no intention to change the position of dog racing in our country. In addressing the Spokesperson for the Department of Trade and Industry, NSPCA Executive Director, Marcelle Meredith, stated: - “On behalf of the National Council of SPCAs and the entire SPCA movement in South Africa, it is my pleasure to commend the stance of the DTI for the responsible attitude. The clarity in your statement is helpful not only to ourselves as an animal welfare organisation but also to enable us to give factual information to caring and compassionate individuals who have contacted us on this matter.” The NSPCA asked to be informed if there was consideration of any change in policy or any approaches made to the DTI that could lead to legalising dog racing. The issue arose after Government Gazette No 37653 of 23 May 2014 included reference to draft National Gambling Norms and Standards for Greyhound Racing. The NSPCA found this extraordinary as Norms and Standards were being proposed for an illegal activity. There has been no explanation for this. The NSPCA intervened at the time by submitting a statement to the DTI outlining our reasons for opposing any move to legalise dog racing. These included detailed animal welfare concerns above all but also included the hugely problematic issue of law enforcement and the fact that dog racing is not a traditional African pastime. Appreciation is expressed to individuals who supported the NSPCA stance of opposing any move to legalise dog racing. It is recognised that racing continues to take place, illegally. The public is assured that information received will be acted upon whether it relates to the planning or holding of races or with regard to the treatment, condition and welfare of any animals used, bred or trained for racing. ~~~~ends~~~~
Posted on: Thu, 21 Aug 2014 13:36:33 +0000