Michael McNamara (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I will not even take five minutes. I apologise again. The Agricultural and Food Supply Chain Bill 2022 was being discussed. It is unfortunate these topics were scheduled together, but they were. I do not know if the point I am about to make has already been discussed, but if it has I ask the Cathaoirleach to stop me. I refer to the model adopted in the medical school in UL. Instead of being limited to the situation in traditional medical faculties where people did their practical experience in the hospitals, many people training in UL medical school also did their practical experience in GP practices as well. I understand much of the practical experience in veterinary training in UCD is in the veterinary hospital, which is of course great. For many young vets, though, this means they have no exposure to large animal practices in rural Ireland.

Is that something our guests think would be important to be incorporated? Are veterinary practices across the country prepared to work with any of the candidate universities, UL or the others? There is a large equine industry in parts of Ireland. Are representatives of the industry willing to partner with any of the schools if they are successful in their bid? The equine and agriculture industries most require the services of large animal veterinarians.