Last week British Veterinary Association (BVA) members in the South West raised concerns that the 14-day deadline for signing the new TB testing contracts did not provide veterinary businesses enough time to consider the contract changes.
BVA, working with BCVA, raised these member concerns with XL Farmcare Devon and Cornwall and other key stakeholders, including APHA. Following a constructive dialogue we are pleased that XL Farmcare Devon and Cornwall is today announcing an extension to the deadline for contract signatures from 14 to 21 days.
President of the British Veterinary Association Sean Wensley said: “We are pleased that XL Farmcare Devon and Cornwall has listened to the concerns that have been raised and has responded positively. We hope this deadline extension will give veterinary practices the time they need to consider the financial and practical implications of the new contracts for their businesses.
“Now that the new system of Delivery Partners is in place it is essential that everyone works together to ensure the effective delivery of TB testing and to maintain the vital relationship between farmers and their local vets.
BVA will continue to support and represent the interests of all our members, and we recognise that making the new arrangements work poses challenges for all parties involved. We have also raised our members’ concerns with APHA, and we are in the process of contacting the other Delivery Partners in England to discuss how we can work together to smooth the roll-out of new contracts across the country.”
Contracts in the South East have been issued today and BVA expects new contracts to be issued in the other regions imminently.
