A compromise may be reached in the decision to close the Kilkenny Veterinary Office following an intervention by Deputy Phil Hogan last week.
Deputy Hogan called on the Minister for Agriculture to ensure that the Kilkenny office is retained as a docking station.
The Fine Gael Environment Spokesman raised the matter in Dáil Éireann last week when he pointed out that matters relating to farming and other queries relating to entitlements and inspections could be dealt with by field officers from such a docking station.
“Retaining the office at Hebron Road, Kilkenny, as such a docking station would be far more efficient and cost effective than incurring unnecessary expense in travel subsistence arising from the decision to transfer the functions of this office to Waterford,” said Deputy Hogan.
Responding, the Minister for Agriculture. Brendan Smith said he would consider the request from Deputy Hogan for such a docking station-style arrangement in Kilkenny.
“Where particular arrangements are identified which would benefit service delivery and operational needs, these will be considered on the basis of an agreed business case,” said the Minister.
