Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I also sympathise with the individual concerned. Deputy Kenny is correct to point out that we often do not hear of the injuries incurred by farmers at marts. It is only when people are killed or suffer life-changing injuries that we hear about it. As I said already, mixing with animals is the third most common cause of accidents in the country. I will pass on the Deputy's concerns to the HSA but it is important that people do not forget their own obligations. I would ask all mart owners and managers to take account of their legal responsibilities and to take on board the practical advice and guidance of the authority.

Some marts have screens in their restaurants on which they show safety videos encouraging patrons to be conscious of safety in the context of handling or passing cattle. The animals are in unfamiliar surroundings, are easily frightened and often cannot see properly when they are going through from the pens to the ring.

I thank the Deputy for raising this matter which I will bring to the attention of the HSA. The authority carries out inspections and has other ways of encouraging all involved to be more conscious of health and safety.

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