RCVS Council Elections 2005: have you voted yet?

This year's RCVS Council Elections have now been underway for a month, yet only 2200 ballot papers have been returned so far to the independent ballot administrators.

Ballot papers were sent to members in early March, together with the manifestos and supporting statements of the ten candidates who are standing for either election or re-election.

There are now just over three weeks left before the voting deadline of 5pm on 29 April 2005, although this should still be plenty of time for both home and overseas members to return their completed ballot papers.

Despite the low figure (just 11% of ballot papers have been returned so far), it actually appears to be a little higher than at the same time last year, so it is hoped that the overall turnout might be an improvement.

In her letter to members that accompanied the voting papers in March, RCVS Registrar Jane Hern said: "The veterinary profession and the RCVS continue to face unprecedented levels of change that will affect all members, whether practising or non-practising, in the UK or overseas.

"If you would like to have your say and help shape these changes, please vote."

Any member who has not received their ballot paper, or who has misplaced it or unintentionally spoiled it, may request a duplicate paper by contacting Ian Holloway in the External Affairs Department ([email protected] or 020 7202 0727).