Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

Greyhound racing is in terminal decline, both here and internationally. It is only legal in a handful of countries, one of which is the US, where it started. Now it has been banned in most states there. This is a cruel industry that has no place in modern society. No matter where this industry is, it is plagued with animal welfare concerns. Of course it is, when it is based on the overbreeding of dogs solely for speed. While in jurisdiction after jurisdiction the industry is being banned, the Irish Government continues to invest millions of euro in it every year.

I do not think that any one is surprised by Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael’s unwavering commitment to this cruel and unpopular industry. It is safe to say, however, that people are surprised and disappointed by the Green Party’s newfound support of it. The Green Party’s general election manifesto committed to phasing out public funding to the greyhound racing industry, the exact same thing the Social Democrats are calling for. It is incredible to me that, in 2022, most of our political parties in government and in opposition support this industry.

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