Northern Ireland’s Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Andrew Muir, paid tribute to the veterinary industry during his keynote speech at the Annual British Veterinary Association (BVA) Northern Ireland dinner at Stormont.
Speaking at the event which was held in Parliament Buildings at Stormont on Wednesday evening (October 2) the minister hailed the “hugely significant work” being undertaken by all those working in the profession which he said, has never ceased to impress him.
Minister Muir also reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the veterinary sector through his time in office, pledging to undertake “real meaningful change” across various aspects of his portfolio, but especially within animal health and welfare.
He listed a range of veterinary concerns he wishes to tackle, including: “Addressing our shared challenge of bovine tuberculosis, ensuring the long-term security of our supply of veterinary medicines, tackling illegal puppy smuggling and protecting our industry from epizootic disease.”
The minister points to the need for continued close engagement and cooperation from both industry professional and department officials alike to achieve the aforementioned “ambitions”.
Minister Andrew Muir
“I see daily the difference the veterinary profession makes, both inside and outside government, to advance animal health and welfare,” Minister Muir said.
“Healthier animals lead to more sustainable farming, better economic returns through a reduction in unnecessary losses, and have a positive impact on our efforts to tackle climate change.
“I have a clear focus on what I want to achieve working with you, and the wider profession, and working collaboratively in our efforts to advance animal health and welfare will bring not only positive benefits and outcomes for animals, but also for public health and our continued ability to trade,” he continued.
BVA president, Dr. Elizabeth Mullineaux, who was also in attendance at the dinner, reflected on the recent challenges characterising the industry and the prospect of a new EU veterinary agreement which would aim to address the shortage in veterinary medicine supplies.
“A new EU veterinary agreement is a chance to protect animal health, human health and food safety, not only in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland but across Europe.
“We will be increasing our lobbying efforts to ensure ministers and officials understand the scale of the issue and prioritise ensuring the supply of veterinary medicines in Northern Ireland is at the forefront of any agreement,” Mullineaux added.
BVA is the largest membership community for the veterinary profession in the UK, set up to champion, support, and empower more than 19,000 vets of all ages, stages, and disciplines.
