The Veterinary Council of Ireland (VCI), the regulatory body overseeing veterinary medicine and nursing in the Republic of Ireland, recently conducted a public trust survey in August 2024 with revealing results. According to the survey conducted by Ipsos Behaviour & Attitudes, the findings indicate a significant level of trust and confidence in veterinary professionals among adults in Ireland. The high levels of trust in these professionals highlight the critical role they play in ensuring animal health, welfare, and public health.
The survey revealed that an impressive 94% of adults place their trust in veterinary nurses, while 93% express trust in veterinary practitioners. These trust levels outshine those of doctors and teachers, showcasing the esteemed position that veterinary professionals hold across Ireland. The findings of the survey also shed light on the perception of the educational standards of veterinary practitioners and nurses. About 80% of respondents agree that veterinary practitioners are educated to a high standard, with a similar level of confidence expressed in veterinary nurses.
Moreover, the survey highlighted the importance of veterinary professionals in public health, with 77% acknowledging their role in disease control, antibiotic resistance, and managing emerging diseases. Interestingly, 30% of respondents were unaware of the pivotal role that veterinary practitioners play in ensuring food safety, which has significant implications for Ireland’s farming sector and food exports.
CEO and registrar of the Veterinary Council of Ireland, Niamh Muldoon, emphasised the significance of the survey results in reinforcing the invaluable contribution of veterinary professionals to both animal and public health in Ireland. Muldoon also pointed out the need for increased public awareness regarding the role of veterinary practitioners in maintaining food safety and its impact on the agricultural sector and food exports. The commitment of the Veterinary Council of Ireland remains focused on upholding the highest standards of veterinary care, education, and public safety.
The survey, conducted by Ipsos Behaviour & Attitudes, involved face-to-face interviews with 1,014 adults across Ireland at 63 randomly selected locations. The respondents were selected based on quotas reflecting Ireland’s adult population in terms of gender, age, social class, and geographic region. The comprehensive nature of the survey ensures that the findings are representative of the broader population’s sentiments towards veterinary professionals in Ireland.
In conclusion, the survey results affirm the significant trust and confidence that the Irish public places in veterinary professionals. The findings underscore the crucial role that these professionals play in safeguarding animal health, welfare, and public health in Ireland. Moving forward, efforts to increase public awareness of the vital role of veterinary practitioners in ensuring food safety will be essential in enhancing the understanding and appreciation of their contributions to the broader community.
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