Fish on Menu for UCD

Veterinary Students taking up a degree in Veterinary Medicine in UCD this autumn will study fish health for the first time in the history of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at UCD.  The Marine Institute and the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine have jointly funded a new lectureship in Fish Pathology and Marine Science, in response to industry requirements for knowledge of fish health in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors.  

Mr. Leo Foyle took up the position and will participate in teaching and extern activities of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine in the area of fish health and aquaculture.  He will provide a core course for undergraduate students and more advanced teaching for graduates.  Mr. Foyle will also provide technical and scientific advice to the profession and the Marine Institute, especially in the area of diagnostic pathology.  He will commence research studies in an area of aquaculture pursuing a PhD qualification in the Department of Veterinary Pathology.  

At a recent meeting with Mr. Hugh Brady, President of UCD, Dr. Peter Heffernan, CEO Marine Institute warmly welcomed the creation of the first position dealing with marine animal veterinary science in the history of Ireland's only Veterinary Faculty. “I am delighted the Marine Institute has been able to play a catalytic role in creating this lectureship on fish health and look forward to meeting and working alongside future graduates.”  

This position contributes to the Strategic Development Plan of the Faculty and the Marine Institute and recognises the importance of collaboration to further promote marine sciences.  Leo will develop and strengthen the liaison between the Marine Institute and the Faculty and facilitate research and education in the area of fish health and marine sciences.  

The Irish aquaculture industry began in the early 1980s and has reached a milestone of €1 billion in sales in its first two decades. The main species farmed are salmon, trout, turbot and shellfish such as oysters, mussels and clams.   The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and the Marine Institute, under the National Development Plan 2000-2006, jointly funded the position.  

ENDS