AQW 20251/22-27

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 09/01/2025
Answered On Date: 20/01/2025
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any recent discussions with universities in relation to the progression of a business case for a veterinary school in Northern Ireland.

Answer:

The supply of veterinary surgeons is the policy responsibility of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and not within the remit of my Department.

I have not had any recent discussions with the universities regarding a business case for a veterinary school here.

As autonomous bodies, the universities have the discretion to offer any course, including veterinary subjects, from within existing student numbers and funding allocations.