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Posted: 24th December 2024

Tributes paid to Professor Simon Doherty
Professor Simon Doherty.
The BVA reflects on 'truly inspirational vet'.

Tributes have been paid to BVA past president Professor Simon Doherty who has sadly passed away. 

Professor Doherty was BVA Northern Ireland Branch and North of Ireland Veterinary Association President from 2015-2016, and went on to lead the BVA in 2018-2019, where he brought his passion for sustainability and One Health to the top of BVA's agenda. 

A passionate advocate for the positive role vets can play in championing sustainability, he led the publication of BVA’s UK sustainable animal agriculture measures and the BVA’s working group on sustainable finfish aquaculture.

Highly respected and an internationally recognised expert in his field, Simon lectured at Queen’s University in Belfast on topics related to animal health, animal welfare, One Health and sustainable food production. 

In 2020, he became an RCVS Fellow and was this year named World Vet of the Year at the WVA Global Veterinary Awards for his contribution to One Health. He also secured the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Veterinary Profession. 

BVA president Liz Mullineaux said: “We are deeply saddened to have lost Simon. He was a truly inspirational vet and a really valued friend. His contribution to BVA, the veterinary profession and animal welfare can’t be overstated and I’m so pleased that his passion and dedication were recognised internationally this year through WVA and FVE awards.

“Reflecting with colleagues who knew him, what comes through time and again was Simon’s generosity with his time and expertise, always ready to share and support colleagues around him, particularly young and aspiring vets. We will miss his warmth, his wisdom and his humour. Whilst it's dreadfully sad to say goodbye, we will remember and celebrate his life, his work and his outstanding contribution to the world - he leaves it a better place.

“Our thoughts are with Simon’s family, friends and colleagues at this sad and difficult time.”

In addition to his work with the BVA, Professor Doherty was played a key role in turning the recommedations of the RCVS Vet Future's project into clear actions. 

Simon was a panel judge at the second ViVet Symposium’s Student Veterinary Innovation competition. He also supported the RCVS on various international issues, including lobbying for veterinary surgeons to be restored to the Shortage Occupation List.

RCVS CEO, Lizzie Lockett said: “We are very saddened to hear of Simon’s passing. His energy, enthusiasm and willingness to work positively with colleagues and peers from the veterinary professions and beyond to achieve the best outcomes for animal health and welfare have always been evident and will be sorely missed.

“Throughout my career, I have been lucky enough to work with Simon on a number of occasions. He radiated warmth and optimism and was a genuinely lovely person who cared deeply and passionately about his work and the professions.

“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his family, colleagues and many friends.”



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