Professor John McNamara:

Good afternoon. I thank the Chair and other members of the committee for giving us the opportunity to address them, particularly on our publication Sowing Seeds of Support: Positive Mental Health Guidance for the Farming Community.

As outlined in our statement of strategy, the Teagasc mission is to promote sustainability in all its forms. We are particularly anxious to assist farmers with health and safety management, including mental health. We use the Total Health model to promote health and safety, which involves health, mental health and injury prevention, which are all interrelated. Our Teagasc trainers and advisers deal with issues such as stress with farmers, including income inadequacy and excessive workload. We also signpost farmers towards health-promoting services and organisations. The Sowing the Seeds of Support leaflet describes health conditions; gives strategies to prevent poor mental health and to manage mental health; gives key contacts with mental health organisations; and is evidence-based. I will hand over to my colleague Dr. Meredith.