Farmers are urged to stay in touch with other farmers

FARMERS who are observing social isolation protocols during the Covid-19 crisis should not feel isolated.

Irish Farmers Association president Tim Cullinan said it is important that farmers keep in touch with their elderly neighbours and those farming on their own.

“While older farmers and those with underlying medical conditions might be concerned about receiving visitors, it’s important that farmers make a special effort to keep in touch with their neighbours via phone.

“We should be conscious that older farmers and those with underlying medical conditions might be concerned about going to shops or co-ops.

“This is where neighbouring farmers could be a big help by collecting supplies for them and dropping them to the farm or helping them out if they are short of help,” he said.

Mr Cullinan said this is a time when those in the farming community need to support each other and ensure the Government guidelines are followed and that those most at risk are supported.

“IFA has over 940 branches around the country and it’s important that farmers look out for other farmers in their parish,” he said.

Irish Rural Link, the rural communities network, is requesting people who are well to call on older and vulnerable neighbours, and to collect their groceries, fuel and medicines fto limit their need to go out.

Seamus Boland, chief executive, said communities around the country pull together when there is a crisis and look out for each other.

“We are now in a crisis and are calling on communities to stay safe and take care of those who are most vulnerable at this time,” he said.