GBGB seeking "when and how" detail regarding Welsh ban plan
THE GBGB will seek clarity from the Welsh Government over "when and how" it intends to implement the ban on greyhound racing recently passed into law following news that leave to appeal a recent Judicial Review decision allowing the legislation to stand has been denied.
Mark Bird, CEO of the GBGB, said: "GBGB has continued to support the Valley following the wrongful ban on greyhound racing in Wales passing through the Senedd, including engaging with stakeholders ahead of the upcoming elections.
"All the evidence shows that the Welsh Government's reasons behind the ban were flawed and lacking foundation - not least as they have been contradicted by Ministerial Advice unveiled through the Judicial Review process.
"Therefore, following the recent Judicial Review judgement, GBGB felt it absolutely necessary to keep options open and explore the possibility of an appeal.
"The original judgment found that the Bill was legal as it was for the Senedd to make a policy decision not the Court.
"On the basis that they believe there is no real prospect that another Court would find differently, the appeal application has now been rejected.
"Our priority remains supporting the management at the track and those employed at and connected to the Valley.
"The impact of this misguided ban on hard-working people cannot be overstated and sets a worrying precedent for standards in lawmaking.
"We continue to support the track in seeking further clarity and understanding on exactly when and how the Welsh Government intends to bring such a ban into place."
Currently, the guidance as it is from the Welsh Government - ahead of those Senedd elections next month which are a possible distraction - suggests there will be a transition period to allow the industry to wind down responsibly before prohibition being brought into effect between 1st April 2027 and 1st April 2030.
Katie Bennison, promoter of Valley Greyhound Stadium, said: "All at Valley Greyhounds are disappointed to hear an appeal against the Judicial Review judgement was not granted permission to proceed.
"We have worked hard to build a sustainable business that employs many people from the local community. We look forward to hearing more from the Welsh Government on how they are going to support the individuals that will be affected by the closure of the track.
"For now, it is business as usual until and implementation date is decided."
Richard Brankley, head of greyhound operations at SIS, said: "It is disappointing that the court has not granted permission for GBGB to appeal the Judicial Review judgment.
"This politically-motivated and unjustified ban in Wales will do nothing to enhance animal welfare and will have a devastating financial impact on the local community when brought into force.
"With a date for implementation still to be set by Welsh Government, racing continues as usual at the Valley supported by SIS."