Think farm safety this summer, minister warns

Farm safety must be a priority.

In the lead-up to the June bank holiday weekend, farm safety minister Michael Healy-Rae has asked farmers and everyone visiting the countryside to take extra care this summer.

Mr Healy-Rae said: “The weeks ahead will be a busy time on farms up and down the country. Children are beginning their holidays, and many of us will be out and about enjoying the countryside. It is important that we are safety conscious over the summer.

“Machinery operators driving on public roads need to be conscious of other road users, as many may not be aware of the risks posed by farm machinery, particularly on narrow, winding roads. 

"The Irish countryside is a wonderful amenity which we should all take advantage of, and I am calling on all road users to be patient and to be aware of farming activities at this time of year," he said.

Farmers should use warning signs and cones where entrances have poor visibility, and any debris or soil brought onto a public road by machinery should be removed without delay.

Mr Healy-Rae also advised the public to avoid fields with livestock and to keep dogs on leads.

“By working together to keep everyone safe, our memories of summer can be ones we will look back on fondly," he added.