Farm machinery sector had €450m turnover in 2008, says minister

THE Irish farm machinery sector, which employs 3,500 people, had an estimated turnover of more than €450 million in 2008, Agriculture Minister Brendan Smith revealed yesterday.

“It is therefore very important that the substantial contribution of this industry to the economy is not understated,” he said.

Mr Smith’s comments were in an address, delivered on his behalf by David Behan, his department’s chief inspector, at the opening of the three-day Farm Machinery Show at Punchestown Event Centre in Co Kildare.

Mr Smith, who was unable to attend due to Dáil commitments, said tractor sales are always regarded as a good indication of the overall level of investment in farm machinery as a whole. Farm machinery markets were buoyant in 2007 and 2008.

“In 2008, tractor sales still remained very positive following the record sales levels achieved in 2007. However, 2009 is likely to offer significantly greater challenges. Despite the downturn in economic circumstances worldwide, I am still optimistic in my outlook for this sector in 2009,” he added.

Mr Smith said farm machinery produced by Irish companies is exported to all corners of the globe. This reflects the quality of the products that are exported.

“Irish machinery suppliers can be rightly proud of their achieve-ments to date, and I am in no doubt that they will continue to supply the many niche markets as they are identified, and keep Ireland Inc as a leading world brand in machinery innovation,” he said.

Referring to farm safety, Mr Smith said the sector, unfortunately, has a relatively poor record in relation to fatalities and serious injury caused by the improper use of farm equipment and machinery.

Health and Safety Authority figures indicate that 21 people were killed in farming-related accidents in 2008 with 12 of those deaths directly caused by machinery. This represents an increase of 10 fatalities when compared with 2007.

“This increase is very worrying and farmers cannot be complacent when it comes to the safety of themselves or their families,” he said.