One of the principle aims of Veterinary Ireland is to procure and ensure the maintenance of just and reasonable terms of employment, and proper remuneration of its members. In addition, the Organisation aims to regulate the relations between members and employers, between members and members, and between employers and employees. “Employers” include all parties who engage, employ or retain the professional services of a member in relation to the practise of veterinary medicine. Veterinary Ireland is also remitted to become affiliated with Associations and Trade Unions concerned with matters to the Organisation as a Union and/ or its members.

As the representative organisation for Veterinary practitioners, Veterinary Ireland holds an almost unique position in that it is affiliated as a Trade Union to the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) and also affiliated as a Trade Association to the Small Firms Association (SFA).

What this means in effect for members is that Veterinary Ireland, through these affiliations and through experience gained by its staff, can provide a first-line information service on Employment Rights and Business matter to ALL members, whether they be a new graduate starting out in their first role as a veterinary assistant, or to an established Practice Principle looking to employ staff or expand their business.

The staff at Veterinary Ireland HQ can talk members through any queries they may have on employment or business matters, and have a host of useful and helpful documents which they can provide on request to members either by e-mail or on an “Advice Pack” CD.

If you have any specific queries, contact Peter Bishton, Operations Executive, or Kira Murphy, Membership Services Coordinator, at Veterinary Ireland HQ, on 01-457-7976 or at hq@vetireland.ie.

For business and employment law articles please click on the relevant links below.

Contract of Employment Template

Employment Law Basics

Equality

Getting Paid

Health and Safety

Model Safety Statement

Health Insurance

Maternity Leave

Organisation of Working Time

Parental and Adoptive Leave

Partnership Agreement Template

Recruitment

Telephone Usage

Time Keeping

Written Records