Fines issued over greyhound welfare double

The number of fines issued for breaches of greyhound welfare legislation has more than doubled in a year.

A total of 43 fines just topping €10,000 were issued in 2017, compared to 20 fines in 2016, Irish Greyhound Board (IGB) figures show. The increase in fines last year occurred despite a slight drop in the inspection rate.

The Welfare of Greyhounds Act 2011 sets welfare standards and requires owners to notify the Irish Coursing Club where the sale, transfer or death of a greyhound occurs.