Deaths ‘unacceptable’

The deaths of five greyhounds belonging to one of the country’s top trainers is another reminder of unnecessary deaths in the industry, the SPCA says.

Stuff revealed last week five dogs died as they were being transported in a van, by ferry, across the Cook Strait in January.

They were among six dogs on the journey that belonged to Darfield-based trainer John McInerney. McInerney and the van driver have been charged with negligence.

SPCA chief executive officer Andrea Midgen said on Tuesday the deaths were ‘‘completely unacceptable’’.

‘‘This would have caused significant suffering for these five dogs. SPCA is concerned with the welfare issues in greyhound racing and this is just another example of unnecessary deaths in this industry.

‘‘SPCA is pleased that the Racing Integrity Unit have laid charges of negligence and is very interested in the Judicial Control hearing outcome.’’

National Party Racing spokesman Ian McKelvie said the deaths were a ‘‘unfortunate and tragic’’ situation.

It was ‘‘imperative’’ the Judicial Control Authority (JCA) hearing took its course before he commented further, McKelvie said.

The New Zealand Greyhound Racing Association (NZGRA) had worked hard to improve animal welfare since the independent welfare review of the greyhound racing industry five years ago, both at an association level and in the industry itself, McKelvie said.

‘‘NZGRA took the feedback from the review very seriously, and has dedicated and experienced staff to ensure animal welfare, track safety, and the post-racing life for greyhounds is at the forefront of the industry’s mind.’’

Stuff has approached Racing Minister Winston Peters for comment.

JCA executive officer Catherine Hutton said earlier a hearing was set down for August 23. A venue was still being arranged.

McInerney declined comment last week.

The greyhound trainer finished second in last season’s trainers’ premiership, with

646 race winners and

$1,257,868 in stakes. to