Perpetua McNamee

Perpetua McNamee qualified from UCD with a Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine (MVB) in 1983 and spent four years in mixed practice in Co Tyrone.  

She then worked for four years as a Diagnostic Pathologist in Veterinary Investigation Centres in Wales and Scotland. During this time, she developed an interest in poultry pathology.  She returned to Northern Ireland in 1992 and over the next few years completed a Doctorate focusing on causes of, and solutions for avian lameness. 

Perpetua's expertise has been utilised locally and internationally, teaching undergraduates and as part of projects such as bustard conservation in North Africa.  During this time, she served as an external examiner in UCD and as chairperson of the Association of Veterinary Teachers & Research Workers (Irish region).  

In 2000, Perpetua volunteered for Voluntary Services Overseas (VSO) and spent two years in the Micronesian Republic of Kiribati.  Work with VSO was multidisciplinary but with a strong emphasis on public health education, working collaboratively with WHO colleagues via a One Health approach. 

On returning to Northern Ireland, Perpetua moved into the State Veterinary Service and progressed to become Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer, serving several Ministers until her recent retirement.  She continues to volunteer for the British Veterinary Association (BVA) VetLife and also serves as a Director of Volunteers in Irish Veterinary Assistance. 

Perpetua has worked in several continents and via many languages during her career, her love of language continues as she and her husband spend time renovating their small cottage in the Galway Gaeltacht.