Following the recent ruling by the Administrative Court of Justice that para-veterinarians cannot participate in the veterinary system elections, a brainstorming session was held online between the head of the Veterinary System Organization of the Islamic Republic of Iran and members of para-veterinarians from provincial councils across the country. In this meeting, Dr. Abbas Ali Motlabi, while appreciating the valuable services of this group, emphasized that the Veterinary System Organization will do everything in its power to protect the rights of para-veterinarians and cancel the aforementioned vote.
According to the Public Relations Department of the Iranian Veterinary System Organization, Dr. Motlabi said at the meeting, referring to the long-standing and decisive position of paraveterinarians in the organization's structure: "Paraveterinarians constitute more than half of the members of the veterinary system and have a great contribution to advancing the missions of this institution. Although the recent decision of the Administrative Court of Justice was issued based on some legal interpretations, we believe it is not in line with the spirit of the law and the realities of the country's veterinary community. We consider this decision unfair and will not allow it to weaken this devout and understanding group."
Emphasizing that the Veterinary System Organization considers itself obligated to support all members, he stated: "Follow-ups are underway in several ways simultaneously; including requesting a review in the Administrative Court of Justice, negotiating with competent authorities, and also consulting with representatives of the Islamic Consultative Assembly to amend and clarify legal articles. Although this path is difficult, it can be realized with the determination and solidarity of the veterinary community."
Referring to the high education and scientific ability of many paraveterinarians, the head of the Veterinary System Organization added: "This group can no longer be introduced simply as experts or technicians; today, many of them have advanced degrees up to master's and doctoral degrees and play a prominent role in various government, private, educational and research sectors. Therefore, ignoring their rights is not fair at all."
In another part of the meeting, a group of provincial council members expressed their views and concerns, appreciating the transparent and supportive positions of the head of the organization. They emphasized that the recent vote, in addition to causing concern among para-veterinarians, could undermine the organization's cohesion. These members suggested that the organization, in addition to legal pursuits, utilize the capacity of the veterinary representatives of the parliament and the Agriculture Commission to amend legal articles.
At the end of the meeting, Dr. Motlabi once again emphasized the organization's comprehensive support and said: "The Veterinary System Organization is our common home. This home gains meaning with the presence of veterinarians and para-veterinarians. We will do our best to amend this vote and ensure that no one feels deprived or distant from the organization."