Michael McCarthy (Labour)

I acknowledge the Minister's response but it is important to reiterate that those involved in the profession want to ensure that the same standards of delivery to customers should apply no matter who is the practitioner.

One sees young graduates from other countries beyond the European Union working in veterinary practices around the country. They cope well and are as capable of practising here as they would be in their own countries despite the different accents they hear around the country. It is important to achieve consistency across the board, no matter who is practising, not least in terms of animal welfare but also for delivery of service. The consumer is entitled to receive the same standard and level of expertise.