Jim Higgins MEP for Ireland North West has highlighted the harrowing increase in farm fatalities for European Safety Week.The agriculture industry is one of the most lethal work environments in Ireland. 58% of deaths involve heavy machinery, whilst 21% are as a result of misinformation. Death rates have doubled since 2009.
"I was horrified to learn that the number of farm related deaths rose from 11 in 2009 to 23 in 2010.
Jim Higgins is adamant that farm safety should be the centrepiece of European Safety Week with a greater emphasis on machinery maintenance and work place safety.
"The agriculture industry is the cornerstone of the Irish economy, with nearly 130,000 farmers; it comprises 10% of overall Irish employment. The economic crisis has resulted in a massive surge in those entering agricultural colleges and farming is once again considered as a viable livelihood for many."
"We must place a greater emphasis on developing a community based approach to encourage farm safety for experienced and first time farmers alike - courses need to be practical, free and locally based".
Farmers are legally required to complete an online risk assessment, Farm Safety Code of Practice. The Health and Safety Authority have stated that only a third of farmers have completed the online assessment.
"Online assessments are not practical, broadband is not available to many in the North West and some do not have computer access."
Jim Higgins argues that, "Farmers would be more responsive to encouragement and positive campaigns rather than increasing economic pressures and on the spot fines, as is currently the case".
"The issue of farm safety must be addressed; however the Government's plans to increase the economic burden on farmers through prosecution, thwarting direct payments and heavy fining must be completely halted. What we need is accessible local training schemes that will educate new and experienced farmers not scaremongering".
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