VETERINARY SCHOOL

Press, Volume XCIX, Issue 29178, 12 April 1960, Page 22

VETERINARY SCHOOL

“Only Education Not Available”

Education in the veterinary sciences was the only education not available in New Zealand, said Mr P, S. Bonifant (Ashburton) speaking at the conference of the South Island Veterinary Clubs in Christchurch yesterday. All interested parties, except the Government, agreed there was an urgent need to establish a veterinary college, said Mr B. G. Johnston (chief executive officer of the Veterinary Services Council). The Government recognised the need but did not regard it as urgent. Sydney University had recently advised that it might have to restrict entry to students from within the state. That could affect the entry of New Zealand students to the veterinary school there, said Mr Johnston. Even if a college was started next year it would be seven years before graduates were available, said Mr R. D. MacKenzie (Mafaura). With the growth of stock numbers in New Zealand the position was becoming more serious.

Ten million pounds was to be spent on a railway for Nelson, with a probable loss, said Mr I. Davison (South Canterbury). Money invested in a veterinary college would at least show a profit. ’ “Let us forget local parochialism in this matter,” said the chairman (Mr E. R. Comer). “An election is coming up this year and we must force the pace.” A remit asking the annual Dominion conference of veterinary clubs to press for th# establishment of ¥ veterinary college immediately was passed unanimously by the conference..