The Environment Minister has welcomed Milan Vets’ announcement to extend its farm support into the new year.
The veterinary clinic has announced it will end its farm services, causing concern across the island’s farming community.
Upon learning of the original decision, DEFA Minister Clare Barber said her department quickly started looking at support options.
“The Chief Veterinary Officer has been clear that the immediate priority is maintaining animal welfare and ensuring farmers continue to have access to veterinary care for their livestock,” she said.
Support
The department is working with the Manx National Farmers’ Union on a survey and exploring support for other practices.
Mrs Barber said that “without access to livestock veterinary services, it would be almost impossible for people to continue farming”.
She confirmed the issue was not previously on DEFA’s specific risk register, but said work is “ongoing” to reframe broader agricultural risks.
Jason Moorhouse MHK questioned the impact on the Creamery and meat plant, while Tim Glover MHK praised Chief Veterinary Officer Amy Beckett for her “tireless” work.