Pearse Doherty (Donegal, Sinn Fein)
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255. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties being experienced by farmers in County Donegal when trying to procure the services of vets, particularly with respect to out-of-hours farm visits; his views on whether the ongoing shortage of qualified vets is also leading to succession issues in rural veterinary practices; his plans to introduce a dedicated rural support scheme to incentivise practitioners to remain in rural practice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15719/19]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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In relation to Co. Donegal, I note that the Veterinary Council of Ireland (VCI) last month granted a Certificate of Suitability to a new veterinary premises located in the county. This should assist in an increased availability of veterinary services in its catchment area. 

 My Department's National Farmed Animal Health Strategy noted a concern at the possible reduction of the availability of farmed animal veterinary services, particularly in certain rural areas. The Strategy recommended that my Department evaluate the availability of farmed animal veterinary services, and the Deputy should be aware that this study is currently underway.