Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 July 2018
1935. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the funding avenues for farmers to enhance safety measures on their farms; his plans for farmers to claim back VAT on equipment they purchase; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34015/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFarm safety is a critical issue facing farming today. Statistics show that accidents on farms cause more workplace deaths than all other occupations combined. While the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has primary responsibility for Health and Safety on farms, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) is fully supportive of their work and assists in the promotion of safe farming practices.
The rate of accidents on farms remains far too high and it is important the focus on farm safety is increased. Health and safety must become an integral part of farming culture and all people involved in farming must take personal responsibility for improving their own health and the culture of safety on farms. No individual action or organisation can solve this difficult problem that impacts so negatively on so many lives each year.
Funding for farmers to enhance safety measures is available under the TAMS II scheme. A wide range of Farm Safety related investments are grant-aid under the Animal Welfare, Safety and Nutrient Storage Scheme, Organic Capital Investment Scheme, Tillage Capital Investment Scheme and the Young Farmers Capital Investment Scheme of TAMS II. The TAMSII Scheme provides generous grant rates for a comprehensive range of investment items. Full details of all items grant aided under TAMS II are available on the Department's website.
