Animal Welfare (Live Baiting) Amendment Bill
12/05/2015
The Hon. K.L. VINCENT: I do not intend to make a lengthy contribution on this bill, and that is mostly because I think my track record in this place will indicate what is probably predictable support for this bill. I understand from a briefing I have received from the minister’s office, and from further research that I myself have done, that live baiting is already illegal under the existing animal welfare legislation in this state. The intent of this bill is merely to attempt to close some further loopholes to make it absolutely clear that this practice is illegal and inhumane and that we as a community do not and will not tolerate the archaic practice of live baiting.
It is important to put on the record that it is my understanding that this particular bill has the support of both Greyhound Racing SA and the RSPCA, which is important because I do not think it would surprise many people to know that those two organisations would have very different views on a lot of things, but the fact that they have managed to come together in an accountable and mature way on this issue shows how important it is. It is important that we as a parliament reflect community views on this issue and make sure that that good work does not go to waste. Therefore, I support the bill.
