Ms Niamh Muldoon:

Yes, in theory, but the registrant seeking to become the licence holder for the premises would have to apply to the council. He or she would have to undertake to provide a 24-hour service or whatever the council would request in time. Therefore, it is not as easy as taking one vet in the door and pushing another out. That is not the case. The council will always have oversight because the clinical discretion sits with the licence holder. The licence holder will be asked to be responsible for all matters relating to the practice of veterinary medicine within the practice. Regardless of who owns a premises or practice, the power sits with the licence holder, who must be a registrant with the council.