VETS: "There are "significant" restrictions to entry and competition in the veterinary profession, according to the report.

It identifies the shortage of places for veterinary students as one of the main barriers to entry to the profession. University College Dublin is currently the only university in the State that provides training for vets.

While acknowledging the high standards of the school, the report concludes that the small number of places available was harmful to competition.

This problem is exacerbated by the current situation whereby veterinary qualifications from outside the EU are not recognised in Ireland.

The report also criticised the current restriction on advertising by vets.

While accepting the danger of inappropriate misleading advertising, the report finds that advertising in general is not likely to be damaging and would serve to benefit consumers.

Limitations currently in place on the role of veterinary nurses were also identified as being detrimental to competition in the profession. Nurses do not have legal status as a separate branch of the profession and are only allowed to operate under the supervision of a veterinary surgeon. The report recommends that suitably qualified nurses be allowed perform certain procedures and offer services to the general public on an independent basis.

The final issue identified in the report relates to the restriction on vets setting up limited liability practices.