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AgVetLink: Number 52, October 2005

Memorandum of understanding between NZFSA and VCNZ

NZFSA and the Veterinary Council of New Zealand have signed a memorandum of understanding to formalise their policy and operational relationship. The primary objectives are to:

• enhance the way in which they work together

• clarify roles and responsibilities

• provide clear lines of communication

• avoid duplication of effort in areas were veterinarians take the crucial risk management role in the use of prescription animal remedy veterinary medicines or unregistered veterinary medicines requiring veterinary overview.

The MoU is based on a mutual acceptance of the differences in the responsibilities, and therefore the operating principles, of the two organisations. Even though there are differences in focus, the two agencies have a common interest in and would benefit from sustaining the effectiveness and credibility of veterinarians as risk managers. The MoU includes three specific operational agreements covering:

• development and implementation of operational policies, standards and guidelines of common interest

• investigation and enforcement

• monitoring.