Fianna Fáil’s agriculture spokesperson Peter ‘Chap’ Cleere TD has reintroduced a proposal to Dáil Éireann that looks to ban corporate entities from owning veterinary practices.
The amendment revived by Cleere was originally brought forward by former TD Jackie Cahill, with the aim of limiting ownership of veterinary practices to qualified veterinary practitioners.
Cleere said that a changed interpretation of the ownership requirements of veterinary practices in 2016 was what allowed corporate bodies to subsequently snap up vet practices, which he added has created concerns over the quality and coverage of the services available to farmers.
“In countries where corporate bodies are permitted to purchase veterinary practices, including the UK, we have seen a decline in service levels alongside rising costs for consumers,” the TD has said this week.
“This can lead to restricted opening hours, longer waiting times and, in some cases, animal welfare concerns.
“Ireland has a veterinary service we can be extremely proud of, particularly the 24-hour care provided across both large and small animal practices. These services are vital for farmers, pet owners and rural communities alike.”
Cleere stated that the intended purpose of the bill is to ensure that qualified vets remain central to the delivery of veterinary care.
He said that the proposed legislation’s approach to vet services has the backing of Veterinary Ireland.
“My objective is to safeguard the high standard of veterinary care that has existed in Ireland for generations and to ensure that continues into the future.”
SHARING OPTIONS