Press Release: World Vet Year 2011: Celebrating a significant contribution to the European citizens’ daily lives

The European Union has come a long way in its efforts to better protect Animal Health, ensuring along the way Food Safety. The role of the veterinary profession, which celebrates its 250th anniversary in 2011, has been pivotal in making food in the EU safe. Health and Consumer Policy Commissioner, John Dalli, spoke on 24 January 2011 in the Agricultural Council about the ongoing dioxin contamination in Germany, the recent African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak in Russia and the Commission's Communication on bee-health – just three recent issues that underline the importance of the veterinary profession in the daily lives of the European citizen. Acknowledging this contribution, the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) has declared 2011 World Veterinary Year.