Introduction to the Veterinary Council of Ireland’s Continuing Veterinary Education (CVE) Regulations
As part of its ongoing commitment to maintaining the highest standards of veterinary care, the Veterinary Council of Ireland (VCI) has in place Continuing Veterinary Education (CVE) regulations. These regulations, established under Statutory Instrument Nos. 577/2020 and 578/2020, play a key role in ensuring that registered veterinary practitioners and veterinary nurses in Ireland stay up to date with the latest advancements in veterinary medicine, veterinary nursing, technology, and best practices.
Access the Council’s CVE Regulations for Veterinary Practitioners 2020 (SI No. 577/2020) HERE.
Access the Council’s CVE Regulations for Veterinary Nurses 2020 (SI No. 578/2020) HERE.
Access the Council’s CVE Guidance Document HERE.
What is CVE?
Continuing Veterinary Education (CVE) refers to the ongoing professional development activities that veterinary practitioners and nurses must undertake to maintain and enhance their skills. These activities are designed to improve the quality of care provided to animals, enhancing public health and safety, and ensuring compliance with legal, ethical, and professional standards.
Why is CVE Important?
The fields of veterinary medicine and veterinary nursing is constantly evolving, with new treatments, technologies, and practices emerging regularly. The VCI recognises that lifelong learning is essential to keeping up with these developments. By participating in CVE, veterinary professionals can:
- Stay current with scientific and clinical advancements.
- Improve patient outcomes and welfare.
- Adhere to national and international best practices.
- Adhere to compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Maintain public confidence in the profession.
Who Must Participate in CVE?
All registered veterinary practitioners and veterinary nurses are required to engage in CVE activities as part of their professional obligations. These regulations apply to both newly registered professionals and those who have been practicing for many years, ensuring that everyone remains competent and equipped to meet the needs of their patients and clients.
Key Requirements of CVE
Under the Veterinary Practice Act 2005 (as amended) and the VCI’s regulatory framework, the following are the core elements of the CVE program:
- Minimum Annual Hours: Each registered veterinary practitioner must complete 20 CVE hours or “credits” annually. Each registered veterinary nurse must complete 12 CVE credits annually. These credits may include a combination of formal education such as lectures, approved CVE courses, and recognised international learning events and conferences, and informal learning such as self-study, online courses, and professional reading.
- Accredited CVE Activities: Not all education qualifies as CVE. The VCI has established criteria for accrediting CVE activities to ensure they meet the standards of professional learning. Registered professionals must ensure that their chosen activities are accredited or recognised by the VCI, and relevant to their field of practice.
- Record Keeping: Registrants are required to maintain records of their completed CVE credits annually and provide this documentation upon request by the VCI for the purpose of an audit. The CVE Record Card is available to assist registrants with this. Failure to comply with the CVE requirements can result in disciplinary action.
How to Find CVE Opportunities
The VCI works closely with accredited education providers who offer a wide range of CVE activities. Many of these opportunities can be found through professional associations, universities, and online platforms. A list of the CVE courses currently accredited by the VCI is available on this website.
To support the profession in fulfilling these requirements, the VCI provides guidance on acceptable CVE activities and offers resources for finding accredited educational programs in its CVE Guidance Document. We encourage veterinary professionals to explore a variety of learning formats, including hands-on training, online learning, and peer collaboration.
For full details on the specific requirements and guidelines of the CVE program, veterinary professionals can consult the Statutory Instrument Nos. 577/2020 and 578/2020 and the CVE Guidance Document. Staying compliant with these regulations is not only a legal obligation but a vital component in ensuring that the veterinary profession in Ireland continues to provide the highest standards of veterinary care.