Green MSP Mark Ruskell receives international award for work to ban greyhound racing
Scottish Green MSP Mark Ruskell has today received an international animal welfare award for his work to ban greyhound racing in Scotland.
GREY2K USA Worldwide presented Mark with its Greyhound Leadership Award at the Greyhounds Around the Globe conference in London.
Mark’s Member’s Bill was passed by the Scottish Parliament in March and received Royal Assent in May. The Act makes it an offence to race greyhounds on oval tracks in Scotland, ending Greyhound racing in Scotland for good.
Scottish Green MSP Mark Ruskell said
“I’m delighted that my work to ban greyhound racing in Scotland is being recognised, but this award is really for the greyhounds, and for the tireless campaigners, who helped get my bill through Parliament. Without them it would not have been possible.
“Campaigners spent years gathering evidence, speaking up for dogs that had been injured or killed, and pressing MSPs to act. I’m proud to have worked alongside them and I want to thank everyone who helped us get the bill over the line.
“My own greyhound, Bert, was a big part of why I brought the bill forward. Anyone who’s shared their home with a greyhound knows what gentle, affectionate dogs they are. They deserve a safe and happy life, I’m proud that Scotland has taken this step to protect them, but until greyhound racing is banned in England and Ireland we still have work to do in these islands.”
Green MP for Gorton and Denton Hannah Spencer said:
“I’ve been lucky to share my life with 6 greyhounds up to now, and I was delighted when Scotland voted to ban greyhound racing.
“Anyone who’s seen my dogs stretched out on the sofa knows what a good life looks like for a greyhound. They need loving homes and owners that look after them, not race tracks that put them down when they aren’t profitable anymore.
“Mark has been such an inspiration to me on my political journey. He deserves huge credit for working with campaigners and seeing this bill through Parliament and I’m delighted that his work is being recognised.
“I want to see that success replicated in England, following Scotland’s lead and bringing greyhound racing to an end for good.”