Leitrim councillors criticise €700,000 cut to farm safety funding

The current funding allocation for farm safety was reduced from €3 million in Budget 2026 to €2.3 million in Budget 2027, representing a cut of €700,000. The reduction was criticised at a recent meeting of Leitrim County Council, where the dangers associated with farming were highlighted.

Cllr Róisín Kenny put forward a motion calling on the Government to increase funding for farm safety following the 23 per cent drop.

“Farming is one of the most dangerous occupations in Ireland with an average of 18 fatal incidents and 4,500 non-fatal incidents occurring on farms every year according to the Department of Agriculture,” Cllr Kenny told the meeting. She added that fatalities on farms account for approximately 40 per cent of all fatal workplace incidents in Ireland, while farmers represent only 4.5 per cent of the work force.

“Some of the non-fatal incidents result in life changing injuries that impact farmers' livelihoods and leave farms at risk,” she added.

Speaking at the meeting on November 2, the day her mother, Gerty Kenny, was laid to rest, Cllr Kenny explained the deeply personal significance of the issue for her family. Her mother had suffered a life-changing injury in a farm accident during her childhood.

“There are accidents every day of the week that affect people’s lives and futures. It’s very important these issues are taken seriously,” she said, adding that everyone could recall farm tragedies within their own areas.

The motion was seconded by Cllr Paddy O’Rourke, who commented that some of the increase in accidents could be attributed to the introduction of different animal breeds and the prevalence of machinery in farm work.

“The Government should be stepping up the safety budget and information,” he said, adding that some available grants are not accessible to elderly people, who are among the most vulnerable.

Cllr James Gilmartin also highlighted the importance of funding for youth and agricultural science students to receive education on farm safety.

“Even with the best will and care, there’s still going to be risks and accidents. We need enough funding to help reduce as many of the risks as possible,” added Cllr Brendan Barry.

The motion was unanimously supported by all members of Leitrim County Council.