BVA elect new NI Branch president
Seamus O'Kane was elected NI Branch president at the BVA's annual AGM.
The BVA has announced the appointment of Seamous O’Kane as president of the BVA’s Northern Ireland Branch.
Following a year as junior vice president, Seamus will succeed Simon Doherty as BVA NI president, alongside his day job as a consultant at a mixed veterinary practice in Dungannon.
Seamus, who was recently appointed NI representative on BVA Council, was elected at the BVA's annual AGM, held on Wednesday (27 January) at the White River House Hotel in Toome.
Commenting on his appointment, Seamus said: “I am honoured to be elected as the president of BVA Northern Ireland Branch. I look forward to working with the BVA Branch team and veterinary colleagues throughout Northern Ireland to provide a strong voice for vets that best represents their views and ensures that the veterinary profession continues to be seen as a relevant, valued and effective body which can be called upon to maintain high standards in animal health, welfare and disease eradication.”
With an active interest in veterinary politics, Seamus has been president and secretary of The Association of Veterinary Surgeons Practising in Northern Ireland (AVSPNI), and council member of the North of Ireland Veterinary Association.
Congratulating Seamus on his election, BVA President Sean Wensley said: “I am delighted to welcome Seamus as president and know he will bring both knowledge and passion to his role and be an exemplary advocate for the profession in Northern Ireland.
“The work of BVA’s Branches is invaluable in safeguarding animal welfare and representing the veterinary profession in the devolved nations, where animal health and welfare are the responsibility of the individual nation. Northern Ireland’s vets have achieved landmark achievements in the last few years, such as the country’s official brucellosis free (OBF) status, and I know Seamus will continue this successful close working with Government, industry, farmers, frontline vets and other partners.”
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
