The Veterinary Council of Ireland (VCI) has elected Joseph Walsh as its new president and Caroline Garvan as deputy president.

The VCI is the independent statutory body responsible for the regulation of the practice of veterinary medicine and veterinary nursing.

The incoming president and deputy president were appointed, following an uncontested election, by council members at a recent VCI meeting.

Both Joseph Walsh and Caroline Garvan have assumed their roles with immediate effect.

Veterinary Council of Ireland

Joseph Walsh is currently a partner in a four-person mixed veterinary practice in Carrick-On-Suir, Co. Tipperary.

He also works as a veterinary officer for the Irish Horse Racing Board at spring and autumn point to points.

Walsh said it is "an immense privilege to have been elected as president of the Veterinary Council of Ireland".

"I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues on the council, along with the registrar and executive team in the interest of the public and of animal health and welfare," he added.

Caroline Garvan is a senior superintending veterinary inspector with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM). She is programme manager for Ireland’s national action plan to address antimicrobial resistance.

Caroline has spent 12 years in private practice, mixed and companion animal, both in the UK and Ireland.

She also sits on the Animal Health Ireland (AHI) CellCheck Implementation Group.

"The work of the veterinary council is vital to ensure a well-regulated veterinary sector in Ireland and protecting the interests of the public," Garvan said.

Niamh Muldoon, the current chief executive officer (CEO) and registrar of the VCI, congratulated the new president and deputy president on their incoming term of office.

She also recognised and thanked outgoing VCI president, Rachel Brown, "for her high level of commitment and dedication in the performance of her role over the preceding two years".

Recruitment

Meanwhile, the Veterinary Council of Ireland has confirmed that it is currently seeking a new registrar and CEO.

Reporting to the council, the successful candidate will work closely with the president to provide strategic leadership, direction and stewardship across all elements of the organisation.

The closing date for receipt of applications is 12:00pm on Friday, February 20, 2026.