GWIC seeking new representatives for animal welfare committee
The New South Wales Greyhound Welfare & Integrity Commission (GWIC) is calling for expressions of interest for a new industry representative on the Greyhound Industry Animal Welfare Committee.
Chief Executive Officer, Steve Griffin, said the Committee is fundamental in the development of welfare strategy and education in greyhound racing.
“The Greyhound Racing Act established a Welfare Committee to provide advice to the Commission on any matter relating to greyhound welfare, including the formulation of welfare policies and standards,” Mr Griffin said.
“The role of the industry representative is open to any greyhound racing industry participant or person who has knowledge and expertise about the industry.”
“The appointment is for two-years and includes a small annual remuneration.”
The Animal Welfare Committee was established in 2018 under the Greyhound Racing Act 2017 with representation specified under section 33 (2) of the Act.
The committee is chaired by Dr Tanya Stephens, President of the Australian Veterinary Association's Welfare and Ethics Group. In addition, the Act requires representation by the RSPCA NSW, currently Ms Kathryn Jurd; the Public Service Chief Veterinary Officer or their nominated representative, currently, Dr Alice Marshall from the Animal Welfare Branch in the NSW Department of Primary Industries; a nominee of Greyhound Racing NSW, currently Dr Alicia Fuller, and a representative of the greyhound racing industry.
“I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Ellen Harris, who has represented the industry on the committee for the past two years. Her passion and knowledge for the industry and greyhound welfare has been extremely valuable,” Mr Griffin said.
“With Ellen's term coming to an end, it's now time for new industry representation and I strongly encourage industry participants to consider the opportunity and apply in writing to [email protected].”
Over the last two years the Committee has investigated rehoming best practice, supported development and implementation of the Greyhound Welfare Code of Practice, provided advice on greyhound population modelling, and considered strategies for reducing unnecessary euthanasia.