Dr. Mary Jane Ireland is the Chief Veterinary Officer for Canada (CVO) and Canada's Delegate to the World Organisation for Animal Health.
She graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College at the University of Guelph, with a degree in Veterinary Medicine and post-graduate degrees in Veterinary Immunology and Business Administration.
She began her career in a mixed animal practice in eastern Ontario. In 2002, she joined the Veterinary Drugs Directorate at Health Canada and held various positions, including Director General.
Since 2020, Dr. Ireland has been working at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, as the Executive Director of the Animal Health Directorate and CVO.
Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO)
Leads Canada's efforts to manage current and emerging disease threats, safeguards animal and human health, and maintain international trust in our inspection and certification systems.
Statements from the CVO
Official statements and news articles from the Chief Veterinary Officer of Canada.
Role of the CVO
How the Chief Veterinary Officer helps ensure Canada can effectively respond to foreign, emerging and future animal and zoonotic diseases.
Become a CFIA veterinarian
Our veterinarians are part of the first line of defence against the spread of many diseases.
Canadian Veterinary Medical Association
Gives voice to veterinary professionals working to sustain and enhance animal health and veterinary public health.
Provincial and territorial governments
Find resources related to animal health for each province and territory in Canada.
Summer jobs for students
Employment opportunities for veterinary students with an interest in public and animal health.
Meet Dr. Mary Jane Ireland
Get to know Canada's Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Mary Jane Ireland, and the role of our Canadian Food Inspection Agency veterinarians!
World Veterinary Day celebration
Celebrate the dedication and expertise of veterinarians around the globe, who work to protect the health and well-being of animals everywhere.
Delegate to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH)
Represents Canada on the international stage and leads Canada's participation in WOAH's process for the development and adoption of animal health standards and guidelines. The delegate is also responsible for notifying the WOAH of reportable animal disease occurrences in Canada.
Role of the delegate for WOAH
How the delegate helps build international standards, recommendations and resolutions for animal health.
World Organisation for Animal Health
Coordinates the global response to animal health emergencies, the prevention of zoonotic diseases, and better access to animal health care.
CFIA reference laboratories and centres recognized by WOAH
Internationally recognized centres of expertise on specific animal diseases.