Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 September 2020
1467. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if there is a scheme to assist those that have suffered a farm accident to adapt their farm and machinery in order to support their continued working on the farm; if not, if consideration will be given to such a scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22421/20]
View answerFarm safety is a critical issue facing farming today. Statistics show that accidents on farms cause more workplace deaths than all other occupations combined.
The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has primary responsibility for Health and Safety on Farms, while the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) is fully supportive of their work and assists in the promotion of safe farming practices.
At present, there is no scheme within my Department to provide grant-aid towards the funding of tractor and machinery adaptation. However, there are tax reliefs available to assist farmers in making modifications to farm vehicles and machinery. Details of these reliefs that are in place can be obtained from the Revenue Commissioners.
