Veterinary professionals in Northern Ireland are considering strike action over pay, after it emerged vets in England and Wales are likely to get a better settlement.
In England and Wales, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) has allocated an additional £29.5 million to a veterinary contractor due to unforeseen recruitment costs.
The FSA’s action to fund their contractor so generously has raised eyebrows, according to the Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS).
AIMS said there was a growing discontentment among Northern Ireland vets. A representative from the Northern Ireland Veterinary Association said: “It’s disheartening to see our colleagues in other parts of the UK being valued more than us. All we seek is fair pay for the essential services we provide.”