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UCP government invests in veterinary medicine

The Government of Alberta recently announce a $67.4 million investment to Alberta’s ranchers.
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(Photo submitted) Members of government and faculty attend the funding announcement at the University of Calgary, May 10. L-R: Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Advanced Education; Dr. Renate Weller, Dean for UCVM; Nate Horner, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Economic Development; Dr. Natasha Kutryk, vice-president, Alberta Veterinary Medical Association (south region); Premier Jason Kenney, and MLA Jackie Lovely. Front: Gordon Atkins, professor at UCVM. (Riley Brandt/University of Calgary)

The Government of Alberta recently announce a $67.4 million investment to Alberta’s ranchers.

Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely has been advocating for more supports aiming to bring more veterinarians to rural communities.

The funding, announced May 12, is through the Alberta at Work initiative and is going to the University of Calgary’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine.

“Agriculture is a major pillar of our economy, and Albertans rely on the experience of trained veterinary professionals to strengthen this sector and help it thrive,” stated the release.

Lovely brought forward Motion 524 last year, urging the government to explore ways to increase the number of veterinarians serving rural communities.

“This funding fulfils our promise to rural Albertans, and will support key improvements in the training and growth of veterinary medicine in our province,” the release continued.

“Veterinarians are valued members of our rural communities. Our economy relies on the success of this profession, and it is essential that we support the training and development of students studying veterinarian medicine,” said Lovely.

“Investing in education programs will bring countless benefits to rural Albertans, ranchers, and their families.”

Through Alberta’s Recovery Plan and the Alberta at Work Initiative, $8.4 million is being invested over four years to support enrollment expansion in the program. $59 million in capital funding is being invested over three years towards critical new infrastructure.

“Agriculture is a key pillar of Alberta’s economy. That’s why it is so critical we ensure that livestock have access to the veterinary care that keeps them healthy,” said Premier Jason Kenney in the release.

“We are addressing the shortage of veterinarians, and that our furry companions have the care they need, when they need it.”