Agriculture Committee report ‘Proposed Regulation of Veterinary Medicines in Ireland’ published

The Committee meetings were in relation to the regulation of veterinary medicines, including EU Regulation on Veterinary Medicinal Products EU 2019/6. The Regulation legislates for the authorisation, use and monitoring of veterinary medicinal products in the EU. It came into effect on 28 January 2019 and applies in all EU Member States on 28 January 2022. The Regulation follows the adoption of a proposal in 2014 to develop fit-for-purpose veterinary legislation which would no longer be based on the equivalent human medicines authorisation system.

Cathaoirleach, Jackie Cahill TD, explained: “Given the significance of this change the Committee agreed to prioritise this issue and hold a series of meetings to examine the challenges facing stakeholders and the changes it will bring to the Agriculture Sector. The Committee recognises the role of Veterinary Practitioners, Veterinary Pharmacists and Licensed Merchants in the provision of advice and animal healthcare products.

The Committee and I would like to express my sincere gratitude to every stakeholder that came before the Committee to give evidence. The discussions with stakeholders were critical to the development of this Report. From the Committee meetings, the shared commitment of all stakeholders in providing excellent services and looking after the health of animals is commendable.”

The Cathaoirleach added: “The Committee has taken on board the evidence given during the hearings and have put together ten recommendations, observations and conclusions. Some key issues arose in relation to the role of ‘Responsible Persons’, the possibility for anti-competitive practices and increased costs to farmers. Although we welcome the sentiment of the regulations and what it’s trying to do, the Committee and I hope the Minister will take on board our key findings and recommendations in the implementation process of the regulations.”

Read the full report here.

More information can be found on the dedicated Committee Webpage. Committee proceedings can also be viewed on the Houses of the Oireachtas Smartphone App, available for Apple and Android devices.