Willie Penrose (Longford-Westmeath, Labour)

One often wonders whether members of the Competition Authority live in the real world. Many isolated rural communities are fortunate if one veterinarian decides to locate in the area. While it is fine to speak about improving the veterinary service, does the Department really believe some of the theoretical propositions made by the Competition Authority have any application in rural areas? Do those who produce reports such as this have any contact with reality?

As in the case of general practitioners, persuading a veterinary practitioner to move to an area to serve its farming community often presents a challenge. Has the Minister of State considered the possibility that the points system at college level is the major factor in curtailing the number of veterinary practitioners? The supply of vets is the limiting factor because one cannot promote competition without adequate numbers of veterinary practitioners.

We all want value for money. From my experience of dealing with many veterinary practices during the years, I have found they give value for money and an excellent service.

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