Council re-election hopeful discusses plans
Image: Chris Gray
Speaking to MRCVSonline, Chris Gray, candidate for re-election to the RCVS Council, spoke of his commitment to continuing the positive change within the RCVS.
When asked why he would like to be re-elected, Mr Gray said: "Coming to the end of my first four-year term on the Council, I realise that it takes two to three years to become fully aware of the way in which the College works.
"I am proud to have been involved with the Working Party that drafted the new Code of Conduct, and would like to be able to continue to contribute to debate, as well as see the changes that have begun effectively implemented."
Mr Gray spoke of his views on the RCVS Practice Standards Scheme, which was criticised by members of the profession at the joint VPMA/SPVS Congress recently. Mr Gray made it clear that he believes the scheme should stay, but that the college should "find a means by which this becomes compulsory rather than voluntary."
He added that in order to improve communication with the profession, the college "needs to continue to embrace modern communication methods", whilst remembering the "diverse demographic of the profession." He said: "The college needs to remain approachable and accessible, and the profession needs to engage with the college."
Moving on to discuss the RCVS' aim to become a first-rate regulator, Mr Gray said the college "needs to continue the engagement with the profession that it has started, and be seen to act on the feedback received. It then needs to extend this to…those involved with animals in all spheres, from pet owners to farmers, to livery yard owners and those involved with animals in industry."
Mr Gray also spoke of recent criticisms of the veterinary profession for its use of antimicrobials. Commenting on the importance of antimicrobials in treating infectious disease, he said: "It is important as a profession that we do not squander [the] right [to prescribe them] by inappropriate use, and I would suggest that it is the responsibility of all vets to remain abreast of current best practice as promoted by BVA."
Concluding, Mr Gray said: "I would welcome the vote of [MRCVSonline] members to enable me to continue contributing to the work of the RCVS. I have 20 years of experience in all aspects of veterinary practice, and believe I bring a rounded pragmatic opinion to discussion.
"I will strive, with other Council members, to see the changes that have started implemented in an effective and transparent way, ensuring that the College develops into a first-class regulator over the next 4 years."
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.
