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RCVS commemorates former president Des Thompson
Dr Thompson was the inaugural recipient of the RCVS Queen's Medal.
Des Thompson OBE has died at the age of 86.

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) has paid tribute to its former president Des Thompson, who died last Friday at the age of 86.

Dr Thompson was president of RCVS from 1995 to 1996, as well as sitting as chair of the RCVS Trust (now RCVS Knowledge). He was the first recipient of the RCVS Queen’s Medal, which is awarded to veterinary surgeons with distinguished and consequential careers.

He was a member of RCVS council from 1980-2004, during which he served as RCVS treasurer from 1990-1993 and chair of the RCVS Veterinary Nurses Committee – which became the Veterinary Nurses Council.

After he left RCVS council, Dr Thompson continued to play an active role within the veterinary industry.

Dr Thompson became a champion for mental health support within the veterinary profession. Through his work with Veterinary Northern Ireland, he set up the Vet Support NI confidential mental health support service, which continues to receive funding from the RCVS Mind Matters Initiative.

In 2014 Dr Thompson was the inaugural recipient of the RCVS Queen’s Medal, which was formally presented to him by Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace.

Linda Belton, current RCVS president, said:  “We are very sorry to hear of the passing of Des Thompson. Des had been a stalwart of the UK veterinary professions, particularly in Northern Ireland, for many decades and will be greatly missed by many veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses.

“As well as serving on RCVS Council, Des had served as president of the British Small Animal Veterinary Association, the Society of Practising Veterinary Surgeons and the Northern Ireland Veterinary Association and was also involved with the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe, arranging for one of its general assemblies to be held in Belfast.

“The sincere admiration and respect for Des can be demonstrated by the fact that he was actually nominated twice for the inaugural Queen’s Medal, and we were very glad to be able to recognise his commitment to the professions through the award.

“On behalf of the councils and staff of the RCVS, I send my sincere condolences and warmest wishes to Des’s wife Rosalie, his family and friends, and all his many colleagues past and present, during this difficult time.”

Image © RCVS

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BEVA gives RVNs right to vote

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RVN members will now be able to take part in key decision-making processes and stand for BEVA council.

Marie Rippingale, chair of BEVA's Nurse Committee, said: "I am very proud to be a part of BEVA.

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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.