Robin Swann appointed Honorary Associate of British Veterinary Association
- Love Ballymena
- Sep 29, 2025
- 2 min read
Robin Swann MP with BVA new President Rob Williams at House of Commons event in February 2025.
South Antrim MP Robin Swann has been appointed an Honorary Associate of the British Veterinary Association (BVA), becoming the only Northern Ireland Member of Parliament to hold the distinction.
The announcement was made at the BVA’s Annual General Meeting on Thursday, 25 September, in recognition of Mr Swann’s long-standing support for the veterinary profession and his work on animal welfare issues.
A statement from the BVA highlighted the significance of the honour:
“The key wording relating to Honorary Associates as contained in the Articles of Association states: Such eminent professional and scientific persons and others who, in the opinion of the Council, will confer honour on or advance the interests of the Association, may on the recommendation of the Council be elected Honorary Associates.”
Recognition of support for vets
BVA Vice President Dr Elizabet Mullineaux praised Mr Swann’s commitment, noting his role in championing veterinary issues in Parliament.
“We have been delighted by your commitment to supporting the veterinary profession, notably by hosting our House of Commons briefing event in February,” she said.
“We are also grateful for your support on reforming the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966, and very much appreciate your ongoing interest in, and engagement with, BVA and the veterinary profession.”
Robin Swann responds to honour
Responding to the appointment, Mr Swann said he was deeply honoured to be recognised by the BVA.
“It is a privilege to have been made an Honorary Associate of the BVA, and I greatly appreciate this recognition.
“It’s been a pleasure to help elevate the important voices of our vets, and I will continue to do what I can in Parliament to champion BVA and its Northern Ireland branch,” he said.
He added:
“I look forward to working closely with the BVA in the year ahead to continue to address the wide-ranging challenges facing the veterinary sector and the many issues impacting animal health and welfare in Northern Ireland.”
The BVA is the leading representative body for the veterinary profession in the UK, and its decision to recognise Mr Swann reflects his significant contributions to advancing animal health, welfare, and professional support for vets.
