Swann Secures Westminster Debate on NI Veterinary Medicine Supply

Robin Swann MP will lead a Westminster Hall debate next Wednesday on “the supply of veterinary medicines in Northern Ireland,” following growing concern from vets, farmers and animal welfare organisations about the lack of clarity surrounding post-Brexit medicine arrangements. The debate will be responded to by the Northern Ireland Office.

The move comes after eight leading organisations – including the British Veterinary Association, the North of Ireland Veterinary Association, the Dairy Council and representatives of the meat, pork and animal health sectors – warned the UK government that Northern Ireland is facing serious risks to medicine access when the current grace period ends on 31 December.

Mr Swann will also meet with a Defra Minister this week to press for answers on how new schemes will work in practice and to ensure that veterinary professionals, farmers and pet owners are not left facing unnecessary disruption.

Speaking ahead of the debate, Robin Swann MP said:

“Vets, farmers, pet owners and animal rescue organisations in Northern Ireland still do not have the clarity they need about what happens when the current arrangements end. The sector is reporting real fears about medicine shortages, increased costs and uncertainty over how new schemes will operate in practice.

“This issue affects family farms relying on essential treatments, pet owners who depend on regular prescriptions and the many rescue and welfare organisations already stretched to their limits. The potential loss of access to online pharmacies in Great Britain from 2026 will further reduce choice and affordability for many households.

“It is vital that the UK government provides clear, coordinated and practical detail on the new arrangements. The people who care for our animals deserve certainty, not confusion.”

Mr Swann concluded by saying:

“This Westminster Hall debate will provide an important opportunity to put these concerns directly to the government and to ensure that Northern Ireland’s veterinary and agricultural sectors are properly supported as the new rules come into force.”