Minister of State with responsibility for Farm Safety at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon, announced an extension to the deadline for applications for the new National Farm Safety Measure to Friday 27 October.
Making the announcement about the National Farm Safety Measure, the Minister said, “I am extending the deadline by four weeks to Friday 27 October 2023 as I want to give as much time as possible to farmers to avail of this measure. I urge all farmers to consider investing in quad helmets if operating a quad or to replace any PTO shaft covers that are damaged or missing.”
To apply for the measure, a farmer or Farm Advisory System (FAS) approved Advisor, must submit an expression of interest before investing in the equipment. It should be noted that when the expression of interest is submitted, written confirmation does not issue by post. Applications for payment (claims) should be submitted on www.agfood.ie via the new AgSchemes – Applications for Payment, as soon as possible and no later than Friday 27 October 2023.
The Minister added, “for too many farmers and their families, operating farm vehicles and machinery without the appropriate protective equipment and guards has cost them dearly. Wearing a quad helmet and ensuring that PTO shaft covers and guards are in place are simple steps that every farmer can take to help protect themselves and everyone on the farm.”
The measure provides a financial contribution to participating farmers covering 60% of the eligible cost of a maximum of two quad bike helmets and four PTO shaft covers.
Farmers are reminded that from 20 November 2023, it will be mandatory for all operators of All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs /Quads) to undergo training and to wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including a helmet, when using such vehicles for work.
Any queries regarding the Scheme should be directed to: farmsafetymeasure@agriculture.gov.ie
