Taoiseach Micheál Martin recently officially opened a newly developed boardroom facility at the Veterinary Council of Ireland (VCI).

The new boardroom has been purpose-built to support high functioning and effective council meetings, "offering privacy and supporting collaboration across the varied expertise enjoyed by the Veterinary Council", the VCI said.

Speaking at the opening, the Taoiseach said: “I’m delighted to be here today at the VCI’s official opening of its purpose-built boardroom. 

"Strong, transparent and modern regulation is essential to maintaining public confidence in our professions.

“The Veterinary Council of Ireland’s investment in its infrastructure reflects its commitment to accountability, high standards and leadership in regulatory practice.," he added.

Central forum

According to the VCI, the boardroom will serve as the central forum for council deliberations under the Veterinary Practice Act 2005, including decisions relating to professional standards, accreditation of education programmes, premises regulation and fitness to practise matters.

Registrar of the VCI, Niamh Muldoon said: “This boardroom facility ensures that we are equipped to regulate a modern, expanding profession while maintaining the highest standards of accountability and public protection.

President of the Veterinary Council, Joe Walsh, thanked the Taoiseach for attending to officiate the opening.

Walsh said his attendance recognises "the high standards in veterinary medicine and nursing, underpinned by the work of the Veterinary Council and the significant and valued role veterinary delivers for our society”.

In addition to serving as the council’s principal meeting space, the facility will also function as a formal hearing room for disciplinary matters.

VCI was originally established in 1931 to regulate the practice of veterinary medicine in the state.