Vet education needs an overhaul - report
How veterinarians are educated needs to be overhauled, or there will be a sustainability crisis.
As New Zealand faces a shortage of veterinarians, a petition has been launched urging the Government to reclassify veterinarians as critical workers.
“New Zealand desperately needs veterinarians from overseas to counter our shortage here, and the single measure that would make the biggest difference is reclassifying vets as critical workers,” says Julie South, spokesperson for the Get Vets campaign.
“Designating vets as critical workers would enable veterinarians of all experience levels and all salary bands – not just those earning more than $106,080 as currently required – to work here,” South says.
“Current veterinary staffing shortages are at extreme levels and are dire for animals, for people and for our agricultural sector.”
South says that in not bringing veterinarians into New Zealand, the Government is putting animal welfare at risk.
“They are also placing an enormous strain on the exhausted and stressed vets we have, at a time when they are more important than ever.
“The Government has made the right noises, but its actions have yet to measure up and make any material difference,” she says.
“We desperately need the Government to reclassify veterinarians as critical workers so vets of all skill levels, salary rates, experience levels and disciplines can be eligible to apply to enter New Zealand.”
A Chinese business leader says Chinese investors are unfairly viewed as potential security risks in New Zealand.
In the first of two articles focusing on electrification in New Zealand, Leo Argent talks with Mike Casey, operator of the 100% electric-operated Electric Cherries orchard and founder of advocacy group Rewiring Aotearoa.
A Foundation for Arable Research initiative which took a closer look at the efficiency of a key piece of machinery for arable farmers - their combine harvesters - has been recognised at the Primary Industry NZ Awards.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has reiterated New Zealand’s ‘China And’ policy, adding that it wasn’t about choosing one market over another but creating more options for exporters.
A long running trade dispute between New Zealand and Canada over dairy access has been resolved.
New Zealand Police is urging rural property owners to remain vigilant and ensure their property is secure.
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