The Welsh Senedd has voted to ban greyhound racing in Wales, marking a significant shift in animal welfare policy for the country.

The legislation passed despite facing immediate legal challenges from industry groups and organizations connected to the sport. Critics of the ban are preparing to contest the decision through the courts.

Opponents of the legislation have accused Welsh ministers of failing to conduct proper consultation before bringing the ban forward. The criticism centers on claims that stakeholders, including those involved in the greyhound racing industry, were not adequately consulted during the legislative process.

The ban represents Wales taking a different approach to greyhound racing compared to other parts of the United Kingdom. The legislation will need to complete its parliamentary process before taking effect.

Details about the timeline for implementation and the specific legal challenges being mounted have not been fully disclosed. The Welsh government has not yet responded publicly to the consultation criticism.