Warning of 'frightening surge' in farming-related accidents and tragedies

A farmers' representative body has warned of a "frightening surge" in farm-related accidents and tragedies recently.

The chairperson of the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association (ICMSA) farm business committee, Pat O'Brien, urged farmers to "force themselves" to keep farm safety at the front of their minds and work practices in the busy weeks ahead, as they work to ensure livestock have adequate water and feed supplies.

"First and foremost, I want to express ICMSA’s sincere sympathies to the families and friends of those who have tragically lost loved ones in farm accidents in recent times," said Mr O'Brien.

"Many farmers have been working around the clock to keep water troughs filled and animals cared for during challenging weather conditions. Their commitment is unquestionable, but they also need to look after themselves. After a long and demanding spring, the respite of summer has not materialised, and fatigue is becoming a real concern on farms," said Mr O'Brien.

The ICMSA committee chairperson said the association had recently met with Age Action Ireland to discuss - among other things - the high proportion of farm fatalities involving older farmers.

"Obviously there’s an important place for retired farmers to remain active on farms, sharing their experience and continuing to contribute. But, first and foremost, farms must be safe and secure workplaces. Agriculture is a workplace, and we must always remember that."

He noted that the agriculture industry continues to have some of the highest workplace fatality rates in the country.

"There were 25 confirmed farm fatalities in 2025, accounting for almost 40% of all workplace-related fatalities in Ireland.  Those figures are deeply concerning and underline why safety must remain a priority every single day."

Mr O'Brien encouraged farmers to avail of the financial supports available to improve safety on their farms.

"There is a 60% grant available under TAMS for farm safety. There’s also a scheme for PTO shaft covers, 60% grant aid subject to a maximum eligible cost of €100 per cover for up to four covers. In addition, the Accelerated Capital Allowances (ACA) Scheme allows farmers to write off 50% of the cost of eligible farm safety and adaptive equipment each year over a two-year period.

"I fully appreciate that, for some farmers, simply putting food on the table for their families is the immediate priority. However, no matter how difficult things become, we cannot allow farm safety to slip. No job on the farm is so urgent that it cannot be done safely," he concluded.