Mr. Connie O'Driscoll:

I thank the Chairman and Senator Mary Ann O'Brien. This arose out of a necessity for education and awareness of farm safety. We have a small base of players, so every player is vital to us. We need to protect them in every possible way. We are a long way from anywhere so journeys do not frighten us. We may have to make a round trip of 80 miles to play a game. That would frighten most guys, but it does not frighten us. It is like going on holidays when we go to play an away game.

We are lucky to have the centre in Bantry that is close to us. We can access it, as it is only 15 miles away. It is handy to have that unique facility both for car and tractor driving. All these things are important.

As we said earlier, a co-ordinated approach is very important in dealing with the problem. I hope the committee will suggest a mirror organisation like the Road Safety Authority to deal with the farm safety problem. It is vital. I do not want to be too critical of the HSA but it is seen to deal more with construction. I accept it has a farming section but what is needed are people who understand farming to deal with this issue. There needs to be a big input from the farming organisations. We would call for more of a carrot than a stick approach when it comes to established farmers. They need encouragement but they are willing to change which they have proved many times over the years. I am sure they will not be found wanting on this matter.

On the point of change in the GAA and getting it to broaden its remit, we would find that difficult. Organisations tend to deal with their core business and stick to it. It is difficult at times to get them to think outside the box. We will not stop nagging them, however, and encouraging them to change. I believe it will happen and the GAA will have a significant role in promoting farm safety. I like the idea of it appointing an officer in this regard. I know Colm O’Reagan based in Croke Park whose remit could be broadened to concentrate on this.