The Tasmanian Government is creating two new oversight roles to help support the greyhound industry, in response to the recent Joint Select Committee on Greyhound Racing in Tasmania.
Funding of $230,000 will be provided for the appointment of a Regulatory Vet and a Stipendiary Steward to start ASAP. Further action to meet recommendations in the report will be announced soon.
The Regulatory Vet will report to the Director of Racing and will be responsible for the delivery of contemporary veterinary practices to the Tasmanian racing industry.
Specific responsibilities will include:
· The provision of expert advice and race day veterinary services;
· The oversight of industry training and learning programs to deliver a high degree of compliance, governance and animal ethics in the racing industry; and
· Overseeing the drug control regime.
The Stipendiary Steward will assist the Chairmen of Stewards in the conduct of race meetings; animal welfare responsibilities including swabbing and identification of racing animals and persons; inquiries and the preparation of reports; and conducting stable and kennel inspections and race trials.
The Tasmanian Government supports the local greyhound racing industry and the hundreds of Tasmanians it employs, and these steps provide the industry with the opportunity to make reforms.