Farm deaths ahead of 2007 figure

MORE people have died in farming-related accidents this year than in all of 2007, it was revealed yesterday.

Labour Affairs Minister Billy Kelleher appealed to all those engaged in the agriculture sector to put safety at the very top of the agenda. His plea was issued as farmers entered one of the busiest periods of the year.

Mr Kelleher said it is clear the vast majority of the fatal accidents that have occurred in agriculture this year were preventable. He particularly urged elderly farmers and those with young families to think ‘safety first’ at all times.