Robin Swann

That was part of the reason for bringing forward this debate today. Any Minister or any organisation I have spoken to that has been involved with the committee on veterinary medicines regulations, which was established under the last Government, seem to be doing a lot of talking and engagement, but there does not seem to be much proof of what is going to happen come 31 December in regards to the continuation of veterinary medicine supply to Northern Ireland. It is another example of how this Government are treating farmers across the United Kingdom—seeing them as a second set of industry—and how they do not seem to grasp the concerns and real effects that their decisions are having. There are four core concerns that remain around this issue. One is confidence. The Government estimate that the number of products under supply and discontinuation threats is actually extremely low. However, there is limited transparency around the evidence base, which raises questions about the reliability of that claim. The second concern is communication. Despite the impending deadline, vets have been provided with limited guidance on the practical application of lease schemes. The lack of urgency and targeted messaging risks disruption, confusion and concerns about liability. The third concern is that of cost. Divergent legislation and bureaucracy in a smaller market like Northern Ireland’s will raise the cost of veterinary medicines. Those pressures could flow through practices to pet owners as well as farmers, with a potential knock-on effect to the agrifood economy. The fourth concern is criminality. There is a concern that a threat or complication to supply will lead to a move to replace a legitimate supply chain with black market or indeed illegal supply chains. Northern Ireland cannot be left exposed. A secure settlement on veterinary medicines is essential for animal health, human health, and the future of our agrifood sector. I, along with others, have made the argument, and it is now up to the Government to act to protect the health of our animals and farms. Will the Minister answer three specific questions? Can she confirm when clear professional guidance will be issued to veterinary professionals and farmers in Northern Ireland regarding the continuity of access to veterinary medicines post 31 December? Will the Department work closely with organisations such as the BVA and National Office of Animal Health to ensure guidance is practical, accurate and communicated effectively to all relevant stakeholders? And will she outline what mechanisms will be put in place to ensure that vets and farmers receive timely updates on any changes to access, prescribing routes or fallback options? To date, those questions remain unanswered.