Sub-committee seeks assurances for NI medicine supplies
Restrictions would primarily affect the farming industry, but also impacts show animals.
An inquiry has prompted a sub-committee to write to the UK government with concerns about Northern Ireland’s future veterinary medicine access.
The sub-committee says that, with Northern Ireland posed to lose access to currently used medicines, a swift solution between the UK and EU is needed to protect animal health.
Northern Ireland is currently in a grace period until December 2025 for veterinary medicines. However, if no solution is found, it will have to comply with full European Union regulations.
The Sub-Committee on the Windsor Framework launched its inquiry in January, examining how EU Veterinary Medicinal Products Regulation would affect Northern Ireland and its veterinary industry. It also considered the effects of no solution.
The committee spoke with a range of stakeholders, including veterinary professionals, academics and the government.
Findings revealed that, without a solution, Northern Ireland risked losing access to approximately a third of its currently used veterinary medicines after the grace period. This could not only affect companion animals, equine and farm animals, but also human health.
The restrictions would primarily affect the farming industry, making it harder for farmers to sell produce and further risking public health. Discussions found that rural economy was considered essential to Northern Ireland, so restrictions and associated costs could cause social and economic consequences.
However there were also concerns for show animals, such as horses and companion animals, that would not receive the necessary vaccinations to compete in events such as the Olympics.
The committee has asked that the government provides an updated assessment of medicines which could be discontinued, as well as an assessment on the reduction of medicines for human health and the food supply chain.
It has also called for an analysis of the potential economic consequences of this reduction in availability, and an update on the progress made in reaching a solution.
Lord Jay of Ewelme, chair of The Windsor Framework Sub-Committee, said: “We have set out some solutions proposed by our witnesses.
“They were united on the importance of political will in resolving this crucial issue, and the urgency in doing so, and we endorse their call for talks leading to a mutually-agreed solution between the UK and the EU as soon as possible.”
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Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
