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BVA elect new NI Branch president
Seamus
Seamus O'Kane was elected NI Branch president at the BVA's annual AGM.
Seamus O'Kane will succeed Simon Doherty

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.”

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RCVS announces 1CPD app update

News Story 1
 The RCVS has announced a new version of its 1CPD mobile app, with enhanced features for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses to record their continuing professional development.

The mobile app includes a new 'what would you like to do?' shortcut for frequent tasks, a notification badge, and the ability to scan a QR code from the home screen to easily record an activity.

Users will be prompted to update the app from the App Store or Google Play the next time they log in. For more information, visit RCVS.org.uk 

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Nominations open for RCVS and VN Council elections

The nomination period for the 2026 RCVS Council and VN Council elections is now open, with three veterinary surgeon seats and two veterinary nurse seats available.

Prospective candidates can download an information pack and nomination form from the RCVS website. Individuals can nominate themselves for the elections, with the results to be announced in the spring.

Clare Paget, the recently appointed RCVS Registrar and elections returning officer, said: "If you want to play your part in influencing and moulding how the professions are regulated, and making key decisions on matters of great importance to your peers, the public and animal health and welfare, please consider standing for RCVS Council or VN Council next year."

Nominations close at 5pm on Saturday, 31 January 2026.