Farm Safety Survey
Sinn Féin MEP for Midlands Northwest, Chris MacManus, who is a member of The Left Group in the European Parliament, is asking farmers to share their views and experiences on farm safety and personal wellbeing.
MEP MacManus said:
“Farming has one of the highest fatality rates. In the last ten years, 210 deaths on farms or in forests occurred, nearly half of these related to tractor operation.”
“I think the number of accidents recorded, although significant, is too low to be accurate. I would like to hear from farms about their own experiences in this regard.”
“Secondly, the survey asks questions about farmers’ wellbeing. The importance of looking after ourselves, not just physically but also mentally, cannot be overstated.” stated the Midlands Northwest MEP.
Farm Safety Survey
MacManus, who is a member of the European Parliament’s Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development, highlighted the difficulties faced by many farmers in recent months and years.
“Many farmers live alone and are getting close to or past retirement age. COVID 19 further limited the amount of social interactions.”
“For example, the cancellation of marts and other opportunities to socialise with fellow farmers. The cost-of-living crisis and a major rise in operational costs are having a significant impact on our farming communities.”
“We feel it is time we checked in with our farmers to see how they are coping and whether society needs to be doing more to reach out and ensure everyone has a friendly ear when they need it.”
MacManus concluded: “The information we collect will be invaluable in terms of making sure Sinn Féin and The Left Group can properly represent the concerns of Irish Farmers in the European Parliament.”
Follow this link and share your experience; it will only take two minutes.
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