Mike Baird Backs Down On Greyhound Racing Ban

Just three months after making a decision to ban greyhound racing, Mike Baird has reversed his stance.

New South Wales Premier Mike Baird is due to make an announcement today that greyhound racing will remain in the state.

Rather than enforcing a blanket ban, Baird will be introducing a stronger set of industry regulations. These will include harsher penalties for animal cruelty, including jail sentences.

According to the ABC, his decision to ditch the ban coincides with a dramatic slump in opinion polls, an upcoming by-election in the regional seat of Orange and an internal revolt from some Nationals MPs.

Whatever happens with #greyhoundracing in NSW, it's quite apparent Mike Baird doesn't run the state.

— EightByFive (@OzFacts) October 10, 2016

Radio shock-jock Alan Jones reportedly met with Baird for a private dinner just before his decision to back down from the ban. Jones has admitted that he delivered a stern warning to the Premier.

"I did make the point that if he didn't (overturn the ban), his government would be dead in the water," Jones told listeners.

Some have pointed out the hypocrisy of Baird's decision, referencing the controversial lock out laws.

Hey @mikebairdMP how about reviewing lockout laws now seeing you're not opposed to reviewing policy? #GreyhoundRacing

— AJ (@AJ_M08) October 10, 2016

The ABC understands no new tax dollars will be allocated to track upgrading. In the coming months an oversight body will be tasked with drawing up new regulatory structures and governance models.

Representatives from the RSPCA and the Greyhound Breeders, Owners and Trainers Association are expected to be included in the body.

Photo: iStock