Jackie Cahill (Tipperary, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

On behalf of the committee, I thank Ms Rohan. It was as heart-rending an opening statement as I have ever heard in this committee room. Unfortunately, we have all walked into sitting rooms and living rooms after a tragic accident on a farm. Ms Rohan's portrayal of the devastation that it causes is all too accurate. We have also seen incidents where farmers have been badly hurt or injured and the devastation that it causes, as well as the significant financial hardship it can put on the family farm structure. Farms usually only have one breadwinner. If an accident happens, there are many different complications and permutations. I compliment the witnesses on the group that they have set up and for the help which is given to the families concerned. Having somebody to talk to can be very important.

I genuinely compliment the witnesses on their opening statement. It was comprehensive and genuine. Unfortunately, we all know too many horror stories. I had a farm accident when I was a young man. Thankfully, I have recovered reasonably well from it. I cannot say that I have not lived a full life. At the time, it put substantial financial pressure on our household. I was 22 years old when it happened and my father was sick at the time, in the first stages of a long, painful illness. That created significant pressure and worry for my parents. I was in and out of hospital for three years. Thankfully, I got back on my feet, and was one of the lucky ones, since I did not experience a real long-term impact. Many people's lives have been devastated. I compliment the witnesses on their opening statement and the work they are doing for families that so badly need somewhere to turn.