Carla Lockhart MP appointed Honorary Associate of British Veterinary Association (BVA)

The recommendation was formally endorsed at the British Veterinary Association’s AGM on Thursday, with the organisation recognising Ms Lockhart’s ongoing interest in, and engagement with, the veterinary profession.

The Upper Bann MP said: “I am humbled and honoured to be appointed as an Honorary Associate of the British Veterinary Association.

“Veterinary surgeons play a vital role in supporting our farming and rural communities, protecting animal health and welfare, and safeguarding the wider agri-food sector.”

She added: “I have greatly valued my engagement with the BVA and its members over the years, and I have sought to ensure that the voice of the veterinary profession is heard in Westminster.

“I was also pleased to play an integral role in the Westminster Government’s Veterinary Medicines Working Group, scrutinising the implications of the Windsor Framework, examining issues around the supply and availability of veterinary medicines in Northern Ireland.

“These are hugely important issues for Northern Ireland’s farmers and veterinary professionals, and I will continue to raise concerns where barriers or difficulties arise.”

The Agriculture spokesman said she looked “forward to continuing to work constructively with the BVA and the wider veterinary profession on the issues that matter to farmers, animal owners and veterinary professionals across Northern Ireland”.