Brussels, 26 September 2019; Yesterday evening was one of celebration for AnimalhealthEurope as the association announced two new member companies joining the ranks and feted 10 years of part-EU funded research project DISCONTOOLS.The new company members are Spain-based Syva whose affiliation takes effect immediately and Northern Ireland-based Norbrook whose affiliation will come into effect in January 2020.Speaking at the association’s back-to-school cocktail, AnimalhealthEurope President, Wijnand de Bruijn commented the following:

“It is good to see a growing, stronger, united voice for the animal medicines industry in Europe. Our new company members are already active in their respective national associations Veterindustria (ES), APHA (IE) and NOAH (UK). We look forward to working with them as we strive to stimulate a regulatory environment that encourages the bringing to market of the latest scientific advancement in veterinary medicines, providing availability of animal health solutions in all markets, for all species.”AnimalhealthEurope used the occasion to reiterate the six key areas where new MEPs and the soon-to-be refreshed European Commission can lead the way for improved animal health, as outlined in their Manifesto. Alluding to the association’s ongoing #MorethanMedicine campaign which promotes the wider veterinary toolbox,

Wijnand de Bruijn highlighted the need for a strategy that specifically supports innovation for the continued development of the different animal health solutions that can support a more sustainable future for Europe.Key to innovation is of course research, hence the celebration for a decade of DISCONTOOLS. The research project was launched 10 years ago under EU FP7 Research and Innovationfunding. Having created a strong network of expertise, the project has identified gaps in knowledge to speed up the development of new DISease CONtrol TOOLS (diagnostics, vaccines and pharmaceuticals) for 52 priority animal diseases, some of which can pass to people (zoonoses). Before the close of the FP7 project cycle DISCONTOOLS received support to continue its work from research funding bodies, and other stakeholders, demonstrating the project’s essential work for informing targeted analysis and other research projects such as the STAR-IDAZ International Research Consortium for Animal Health.
Another good reason to celebrate.