Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 July 2021
136. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the extent to which his Department continues to monitor the level of farm accidents; if further measures are contemplated to address the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38954/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Health and Safety Authority (HSA) investigate every farm fatality. In addition, data is collected on incidents at work as part under the Framework Directive 89/391/EEC (1) on measures to encourage improvements in the safety and health of workers at work.
Each year the HSA publishes a comprehensive review of workplace injuries, illnesses and fatalities. The latest report was published in July 2021 and relates to the period 2019 – 2020. In addition, the HSA will shortly publish a review of work-related death in agriculture in Ireland from 2011 – 2020. The information and findings from the reports are used to inform future programmes of work and to identify key issues to focus on during awareness raising campaigns, inspection campaigns, and engagements with key stakeholders.
Under its current strategy statement (2019-2021), the HSA has identified agriculture as a priority sector. In support of this prioritisation, the HSA has an extensive farm safety prevention programme in place, which focusses on the provision of advice, guidance, e-tools and educational supports for the sector, as well as targeted inspection campaigns. This programme is delivered in a collaborative manner and involves the key farming stakeholder groups along with government agencies and departments.
Initiatives and measures are in place to educate, raise awareness and help prevent the injuries and fatalities prevalent in the farming community. Extensive guidance and information on all aspects of farm safety, developed by the HSA in consultation with stakeholders, is freely available. The core of this being a user-friendly Farm Safety Code of Practice and half-day training program on its practical use delivered by the Teagasc advisory service and independent agricultural advisers.
Later this month, the HSA will roll out a proactive inspection programme to coincide with Farm Safety Week (19 - 23 July) which is an annual event led by the Farm Safety Foundation and takes place across the UK and in the Republic of Ireland.
