Comments attributed to Tasmanian Greens Leader Cassie O’Connor and Independent MHA for Clark Kristie Johnston in the media today are inaccurate and need correcting, Tasracing CEO Andrew Jenkins said.
“Ms Susan Gittus pleaded guilty to a presentation charge in 2020, not administration, which was clearly noted in the Stewards’ report,” he said. “This is an important distinction as presentation does not imply wilful administration of a banned substance. This evidenced in the Stewards Inquiry that did not reach any findings that Ms Gittus wilfully administered a banned substance, but took into account the possibility that the positive sample was due to a contamination in meat supplies.”
“Every greyhound at GAP will, as has always been the case, be given every opportunity and appropriate time to become ready for re-homing. There is no new or changed approach toward euthanasia. It is untrue there is an increased propensity toward euthanasia at GAP. In fact, from 1 July the Director of Racing is included as an additional and final approver of euthanasia for any GAP greyhounds – unlike greyhounds in domestic environments.
“It is also untrue that Ms Gittus was heavily-involved in preparing the draft GAP policy paper. The paper was drafted by Tasracing and remains in draft.
“Ms Gittus has served the relevant penalty for an isolated charge and, as a highly-qualified and experienced greyhound professional is wholly-endorsed by Tasracing as the Interim GAP Manager.”