Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Independent)

I was shocked when I read the report of the Health and Safety Authority. One assumes the risks are greatest in industrial environments or building sites. I was shocked to see the number of deaths on farms and the increase in that number. One of the senior inspectors predicted last week that a file could be sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions after every farm fatality. He also referred to enforcement notices.

Does the Minister believe there is under-reporting of accidents on farms? I read somewhere that the number of farmers who speak of near misses with livestock is extraordinarily high. Livestock and machinery pose the greatest risks. Does the Minister believe legislation is required on quads, which are being used increasingly frequently on farms? There appears to be a difficulty in this regard also.

I totally agree with the Minister that a change in culture is essential. I live in Leixlip just beside the Intel plant. The lengths to which such a company goes to ensure a culture of safety on-site are extraordinary. We need to change the mindset if we are to address the issue substantially.

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