UNCOMFORTABLE questions have been raised by National MPs within the state Coalition in the wake of the NSW Greyhound racing ban. Accusations have centered on the closed-door Cabinet decision, which locked out voices from the bush.
Cootamundra MP Katrina Hodgkinson led the chorus, which featured regional MPs Chris Gulaptis, Melinda Pavey, and Kevin Humphries.
Ms Hodgkinson called on Nationals leader Troy Grant to allow a conscience vote so that "those people who want to see the abolition of thousands of jobs from regional NSW can have that on their conscience".
Mr Grant said he would not permit his MPs to cross the floor.
The Shooters, Fishers and Farmers mocked the Nationals’ inability to “stand up” to Liberal Premier Mike Baird and said they’re “in bed with the Greens”. NSW Labor leader Luke Foley also taunted the government to capitalise on the Nationals’ rift.
“What offends me the most is the almost sneering contempt North Shore Liberals and inner city Greens are showing to people in the sport of Greyhound racing,” Mr Foley said.
“I am astonished that a shut down is announced without comprehensive information on how the people are affected and the dogs will be dealt with. I resent these animal lovers being portrayed as barbarians. They are not.”
Primary Industries Minister Niall Blair was at pains to allay fears and said the issue was isolated to Greyhounds.
“In fact, I think Greyhound racing could have learnt from our primary industries on animal welfare... where industries are leading the response and addressing concerns,” he said.
“If anyone starts looking at farm industries I will be a very strong advocate for how we differ from Greyhound racing.”
If anyone starts looking at farm industries I will be a very strong advocate for how we differ from greyhound racing.
- NSW Primary Industries Minister Niall Blair
Mr Grant echoed Minister Blair’s support for primary producers and defended government’s decision-making process.
“Nationals MPs were made aware of the decision through email before the public announcement and I made sure I called everyone after to explain Cabinet’s reasons,” he said.
It is unclear what government’s transition plan has in store for the thousands of unwanted race dogs, while financial assistance for the industry is undetermined. Farmers who used Greyhound-supplying knackeries to euthanise livestock will also need to find biosecure alternatives.