The Council of the Australian College of Veterinary Scientists will again present to its members a proposal to change its name to one that will appropriately reflect New Zealand’s involvement in all of its functions.
The new name being proposed is the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists (ANZCVS) and will be presented as part of the Annual General meeting on July 2, 2011.
A decision made 40 years ago when the College was beginning saw New Zealand omitted from the title. Ever since then New Zealanders have had to accept a qualification and title that does not truly reflect their origin and their training.
This will be the fifth attempt to address the issue. On each previous occasion, the motion for a name change has not been carried, despite an overwhelming sentiment that name change is necessary.
New Zealand members account for 13 per cent of all ACVSc membership.
At least 75 per cent of the votes cast must support the name change motion for the special business motion to be passed. College members are strongly encouraged to attend the AGM and vote on the floor in favour of the name change, or to submit a proxy vote in favour of the name change.
Members will require a new postnominal of ANZCVS, dropping the lower case c for ease of use.
It is hoped that the new name will appropriately reflect the origin, makeup and geographical spread of the College, and will also reduce confusion as to what body represents the veterinarians in New Zealand who strive to advance their professional standing outside of formal academic qualifications.
It is believed the new name will also enhance the College’s international weighting and standing.
Further background information can be found on the college website under latest news.