Veterinary Nurse Preliminary Investigation Committee
The VN Preliminary Investigation Committee meets every six to eight weeks to decide if cases should be referred to a VN Disciplinary Committee hearing.
Dr Jane Downes
MRCVS
Biography
Jane qualified from Bristol University school of veterinary science in 1978. After working for ‘James Herriot’ in general practice in North Yorkshire she specialised in veterinary public health taking the role of Veterinary Director at the Meat Hygiene Service, Food standards Agency, with responsibility for ensuring Great Britain was meeting all its regulatory responsibilities in abattoirs and meat premises.
In this period there were significant challenges in agriculture including the BSE, the E. Coli and the food and mouth outbreaks. On leaving the Civil Service in 2010 Jane has built up a portfolio of work all linked to improving animal welfare and food safety.
Jane served on the RCVS Disciplinary Committee for 8 years and was the Vice Chair to the Governing Board of Askham Bryan Agricultural College. Current roles include veterinary advisor to a leading veterinary organisation, and is a trustee of the University Federation for Animal Welfare. As Chair to the Food safety group of the Pig health and Welfare Council Jane has been influential in the development of the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway, a government funded scheme to reduce the impact of endemic diseases and she works with major meat producers to reduce the risks from animal disease and improve animal welfare. Jane chairs FDQ Lt. an Awarding Organisation which provides qualifications and apprenticeship examinations for those working in food and drink businesses. Jane is also a trustee of RSPCA Assured.
Committee membership
- Veterinary Nurse Preliminary Investigation Committee - Appointed July 2023
- Accreditation Panel Member - Appointed April 2023
Declaration of Interests
| Directorships | FDQ Ltd - Chair |
|---|---|
| Shareholdings | None |
| Consultancies |
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| Appointments to other bodies |
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| Membership of other veterinary or allied organisations |
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| Employment | None |
| Qualifications (other than veterinary qualifications listed in the Register) | None |
| Interests relating to immediate family or close friends | None |
| Other relevant information | None |