§ Mrs. Fiona JonesTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he has to introduce training programmes for OVS level staff in the Meat Hygiene Service.[62783]
§ Mr. RookerOfficial Veterinary Surgeons (OVSs) are qualified veterinary surgeons. The veterinary undergraduate course is approximately five years and is extensive and intensive. It incorporates training in microbiology, pathology, veterinary public health and zoonotic disease. In addition, and before commencing as OVSs, veterinary surgeons are required to undertake the OVS accreditation course. This provides refresher training in meat hygiene and inspection, animal welfare and relevant legislation.
The MHS also launched its Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme in April 1997 as a mechanism for addressing the training and professional development needs of OVSs. In partnership with various training providers, the MHS provides at least two days training per year to facilitate CPD to ensure that the skills and knowledge of OVSs are up to date. OVSs must undertake a minimum of a further three days CPD obtained from other sources such as the Veterinary Public Health Association/British Veterinary Association Conferences and other commercially provided CPD.
Training in enforcement, assertiveness and other management skills continues to form part of the MHS's ongoing training programme for OVSs.