DR. M. (Mathieu) Sommers

“As a veterinarian, I believe it’s important to contribute to the health and welfare of both humans and animals. A key principle for me is recognising the intrinsic value animals have in our society. Within the Central Authority for Scientific Procedures on Animals, I would like to use my laboratory animal medicine expertise to promote the careful consideration of each project application, and to work with the other committee members to come to a balanced evaluation.

Proper cooperation between stakeholders is essential for the responsible use of laboratory animals. The researchers, the Animal Welfare Bodies, the Animal Ethics Committees (DECs) and the research institutions all have a part to play, together with the CCD, both in gaining useful research findings for our society and in ensuring the best possible animal welfare and applying the principles of Replacement, Reduction and Refinement to animal procedures. I am confident that this valuable collaboration will continue to be refined in the years ahead, and I am committed to contributing my knowledge and experience to support it.”