Twenty deaths as a result of farm accidents have been recorded in the last 19 months in Northern Ireland alone. Drowning in a slurry was once identified as the second most common cause of farm death. In the year 2011 there was a massive increase in farm-related fatalities which represented one of the worst years in a decade for accidents involving loss of life on Irish farms. This year it is estimated that farm accidents have increased yet again - by 35 per cent. According to the Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Deputy Shane McEntee, there were 6,673 non-fatal accidents reported on farms, in addition to 22 fatalities.
Thus year-in year-out, the number of deaths in the farming sector has continued to grow, and farming, regarded as the backbone of the country, remains one of the most dangerous workplaces. Indeed the fatality rate in agriculture is higher than any other economic sector and, of huge concern, is that it is the young and the old who are most vulnerable.
These statistics are stark but, for many urbanites not directly affected, they are just that, numbers. They do not reveal the profound effect on families, friends, close-knit communities, and the entire farming sector.
This week we are mourning the devastating deaths of three members of a family in Hillsborough. Young rugby player Nevin Spence, along with his father Noel and brother Graham died in a slurry tank accident on the family farm in Down, stunning the county and the rugby community in particular. That Nevin Spence was a talented Irish rugby player, who played for Ulster and last year won the Young Irish Player of the Year, has without doubt, heightened the tragedy and prompted widespread media coverage. It also came at a time which the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland has described as the "worst period" for farming fatalities with at least one death per month over the past 20 months. The tragic deaths of Nevin, Graham and Noel Spence have brought the dangers posed by slurry into sharp focus, and let us hope it is not in vain and that this tragedy can prompt a rigorous evaluation of health and safety in all areas of agriculture.
Deputy Shane McEntee has stated that Ireland should learn from the example of road accidents where for many years lives were lost before governments acted. A concerted television and media campaign promoted by the Road Safety Authority has certainly increased awareness of road safety. It is unthinkable now to travel without a seat belt or drink and drive. The Government, through the Health and Safety Authority, must also follow suit in this area which appears neglected.
Health and Safety was also at the forefront of Galway decision makers this week when it was agreed to move any homecoming for the Galway hurlers away from the Cathedral as previously planned. The Cathedral has always provided special homecomings for our sporting heroes and it is now up to all Galwegians to ensure they continue that fine tradition in Pearse Stadium.
