Probe into greyhound racing

2008-08-27 20:05

Johannesburg - The Department of Trade and Industry will investigate the possible legalisation of greyhound dog racing in South Africa, the University of the Free State (UFS) said on Wednesday.

The department and the UFS law faculty would seek to provide an objective overview of the greyhound racing industry, nationally and internationally, the university said in a statement.

"This includes aspects such as animal welfare, social, economic and political issues and the legal framework pertaining to greyhound racing."

The sport was currently active in countries like the USA, Ireland, England, Belgium, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and Vietnam.

Although gambling was legal in South Africa, the question had been raised whether this kind of racing was still illegal.

Animal welfare and protection groups were in support of the ban on Greyhound racing.

The university said the research team would present workshops later this year to gather input from the public.

Anyone who wanted to make a written submission could fax it before or on November 30, to Professor Elizabeth Snyman-Van Deventer at 051-401-2698 or e-mail it to [e-mail].

- SAPA