Parishes urged to offer prayers for farm safety

Wednesday August 26th 2015

Farming is one of the most dangerous sectors to work in says the HSENI.

The Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland is appealing to parishes to raise awareness of farm safety issues and pray for farmers and their families.

Dr Bryan Monson, Deputy Chief executive of the HSENI, is urging churches to consider highlighting farm safety at a Harvest Thanksgiving service or other specific date in the year.

He asks that farming families be remembered in prayers for safety, for healing for those who are injured and comfort for those bereaved.

“Farming remains a major and important part of our community in Northern Ireland, however, the sector continues to be one of the most dangerous to work in, with seven fatalities and hundreds of serious injuries over the past year,” said Dr Monson.

“This, along with many other pressures on farmers highlights the need to continue to support those in the sector.”

Dr Monson said that over the past year a number of rural church groups have held meetings or events to highlight farm safety to their members. “I and my colleagues in the Farm Safety Partnership would be keen to assist churches and church groups by offering speakers or materials to any who are interested,” he said.

Any parish interested in finding out more can contact Dr Monson at the HSENI on 028 9054 6835 or by email: bryan.monson@hseni.gov.uk.