Marcella Corcoran Kennedy (Offaly, Fine Gael)
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I thank our guests for appearing before the committee. I have a couple of questions, although they are quite similar to the previous two. Section 54(2) of the Veterinary Practice Act, at the time of the Bill's enactment, was interpreted as being able to prevent a body corporate from owning a veterinary practice. Why was there a review that led to a revision of the code of professional conduct? Why and when was that legal advice sought?

The Veterinary Council stated that it has no legal powers regarding the regulation of the market. Is it seeking further powers in order to extend its activities into that area?

Many students who graduate seem to join smaller-animal practices. Has the Veterinary Council reviewed that trend and examined the position regarding the number of graduates who join large-animal practices? For example, does the council have any idea how many graduates joined large-animal practices in the past five years?

The Veterinary Council is developing a new strategy for the period 2019 to 2023. Will the consultations it has conducted with stakeholders form part of the review of ownership?