The Veterinary Council of Ireland (VCI) has launched two public consultations in relation to vet practice standards and also standards of accreditation for vet programmes.

The first consultation invites feedback on the Premises Accreditation Scheme (PAS), which defines the minimum standards and requirements that all registered veterinary premises must meet to operate safely and legally.

As part of a comprehensive review, the council is seeking input from veterinary practitioners, veterinary nurses, practice owners, veterinary practice staff, animal owners, industry stakeholders and members of the public to ensure the scheme continues to reflect the evolving needs of modern veterinary care.

This public consultation is open until August 29, 2025, and responses will be used to inform future updates to the PAS, ahead of the next Premises Accreditation Scheme Cycle (2026–2029).

Simultaneously, the VCI has launched a second consultation on the Standards of Accreditation for Programmes of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Nursing in Ireland.

The council said that accreditation standards ensure best practice and professionalism in the programmes of education for students, to ground and support high standards in the practice of veterinary medicine and veterinary nursing in Ireland, and to the benefit of animal health and welfare, public health, and food safety in the public interest.

VCI accredited programmes of education enable eligibility to access the registers of veterinary practitioners and veterinary nurses in Ireland.

In anticipation of growth in veterinary education, and the prospect of new education providers, programmes, and delivery models, the council is reviewing its current standards for accreditation to ensure these reflect best practice and align with the One Health approach.

This consultation runs until September 11, 2025 and welcomes written submissions from all interested parties.

CEO and registrar of the Veterinary Council of Ireland, Niamh Muldoon said: "These consultations form a vital part of the council’s role in safeguarding the quality and integrity of veterinary services and education in Ireland.

"We are encouraging wide engagement from across the veterinary professions and the public to help shape standards that serve the needs of society, protect animal welfare, and support the future of the professions."