Guernsey appoints David Chamberlain in new vet role

David Chamberlain has been appointed as the States of Guernsey's first directly employed veterinary officer.

Mr Chamberlain has worked as a vet in the island since 1987 and will take up the part-time role on 5 December.

The job has previously been contracted to an independent vet but an expansion of the role has led to the change.

Carla McNulty-Bauer, the Commerce and Employment minister, said the States vet needed to be able to "act without any possible conflict of interest".

She said: "His enthusiasm and wide experience are going to be great assets for us all."

Mr Chamberlain will be responsible for overseeing the operation of the slaughter house and artificial insemination centre.

He will also be responsible for animal welfare, veterinary legislation and preventing the spread of diseases.

A significant redrafting of Guernsey's animal welfare laws is to debated by the States in 2012.

Mr Chamberlain said: "I look forward to the challenge of assuring the health and welfare of the island's animals."