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BVNA calls for greater vet nurse role in RCVS governance
There are currently two RVNs on RCVS Council.
The association has published its response to the RCVS governance consultation.

The British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA) has called for greater involvement of veterinary nurses in the governance of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).

Responding to the consultation being run by the RCVS into its proposed governance reforms, BVNA called the idea of veterinary surgeons as the ‘lead profession’ in the veterinary sector a ‘dated concept’, arguing that veterinary nurses are as equally responsible for the welfare of the patients in their care.

While there are currently two RVNs on RCVS Council, appointed by VN Council, BVNA wants the reforms to lead to ‘an equal proportion of representation between both professions currently already under regulation by the RCVS’.

Among its recommendations to help achieve this, BVNA wants to see the size of RCVS Council reduced to 12 members, matching the proposed reduction in size of VN Council and bringing both into line with the regulatory norm.

BVNA also wants to ensure that veterinary nurses have an equal opportunity to vote. It says that while VN Council exists to discuss some matters in the veterinary nursing profession, ‘it does not afford its members voting rights, and therefore the same degree of influence as afforded to those on RCVS Council’.

The response also raises concerns that the inclusion of ‘allied professions’ could see veterinary nursing fall into this category, possibly diminishing public recognition of the role at a time when efforts are being made to raise awareness of veterinary nursing.

Lyndsay Hughes, BVNA president, said: “Veterinary nurses are already long established as a regulated and professional workforce. We lead in many aspects of professional and clinical practice, with joint responsibility for the welfare of patients in our care.

“Therefore, it is BVNA’s view that veterinary nurses are also fully capable of contributing equally towards the college’s governance; as one of the two professions already under RCVS regulation.

“We hope that this consultation will provide the opportunity for the RCVS to consider how veterinary nurses can be better utilised within its future approach to governance.”

The full response can be read here.

Image © Shutterstock

 

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Central Qualifications to attend BVNA Congress

News Story 1
 Central Qualifications (CQ) is to host a stand at this year's BVNA Congress. The awarding body will be at Stand C9 from 11-13 October.

It will discuss changes to the qualifications strategy and some new qualifications, including a top-up course for equine veterinary care, so qualified veterinary nurses can broaden their skills.

Rachael Shepherd, education consultant at CQ, said: "We are looking forward to attending BVNA Congress this year. There are exciting times ahead, with a revamp to the VN qualifications and assessment strategy and the introduction of some new qualifications." 

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News Shorts
Northern Ireland chief vet warns of bluetongue risk

Following the detection of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in England, Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant and source animals responsibly.

Brian Dooher said: "This confirmation in England is a stark reminder of the threat bluetongue presents to Northern Ireland.Whilst this finding in Norfolk is disappointing it is not unexpected giving the rising level of disease across several countries in Europe. Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety, however an incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy.

"I would like to remind all farmers of the importance of sourcing animals responsibly and ask that they maintain vigilance for signs of the disease reporting any suspicions to DAERA immediately."

Suspected cases of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.