'Outdated so-called sport': Dogs Trust hope greyhound racing is banned in Northern Ireland following Drumbo Park closure
Welfare charity Dogs Trust says it welcomes the permanent closure of Drumbo Park Greyhound Stadium and says it hopes the news signals the beginning of the end for greyhound racing in Northern Ireland.
The facility in Lisburn has permanently closed with immediate effect due to severe operational difficulties.
The track's final meeting took place during the Mabel Blair Memorial Ulster Oaks final last Saturday (August 29).
It now leaves Brandywell Stadium in Londonderry as Northern Ireland’s only remaining greyhound racing track.
In a statement, Dogs Trust believes the closure of Drumbo Park is another sign of declining public interest in the so-called sport and is renewing its call for a phased end to greyhound racing across the UK.
There are currently no Scottish tracks in operation, whilst the remaining greyhound facility in Wales is at Valley Greyhounds in Ystrad Mynach.
Dogs Trust hope Northern Ireland now follow a similar route after Drumbo Park’s closure.
Laura Orr, Regional Public Affairs Officer at Dogs Trust said: “We welcome the closure of Drumbo Park and hope it marks the beginning of the end for this cruel and outdated so-called sport.
"Greyhounds should not be put at risk of serious injury or death simply for entertainment.
“Our priority now must be the dogs connected with the track. Every greyhound must be accounted for, properly cared for and given the opportunity to become a much-loved companion.
"Northern Ireland should follow Wales and Scotland by committing to a managed, phased end to greyhound racing.”