08-08-2025
Mental health just as important as physical safety on farms
The Fianna Fáil agriculture spokesperson Peter 'Chap' Cleere has called for increased awareness of the mental health challenges facing Ireland's farming community.
The Carlow–Kilkenny TD has also reaffirmed Fianna Fáil's commitment to supporting farmers' wellbeing through targeted funding and training initiatives.
'Farming is one of the most rewarding careers, but it is also one of the most demanding and isolating.
'Behind the daily tasks and long hours are real people under real pressure facing stress from inspections, price volatility, policy changes, late payments and deep worry about the future of their farms.
"In my view, mental health is just as important as physical safety on our farms," Deputy Cleere said.
As Farm Safety Week 2025 continues, Deputy Cleere encouraged farmers to take a moment to check in on their own wellbeing and that of their families and neighbours.
Recent data from the HSE National Office for Suicide Prevention found that 23.4% of farmers are considered at risk of suicide, a figure significantly higher than the general population.
'That's not just a statistic. That's someone's brother, sister, neighbour, or friend. We must treat it with the seriousness it deserves,' Deputy Cleere said.
In 2025, €2.5 million is being allocated to safety and mental health initiatives tailored specifically for farmers.
Among the initiatives receiving support is 'On Feirm Ground 2', a national training programme that equips agricultural advisers, vets, Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) staff, and farm organisation members with the tools to identify and support farmers experiencing mental health issues.
'More than 1,000 people have already taken part in the On Feirm Ground training, and they are now better placed to spot the signs and signpost struggling farmers to appropriate help.
"We're building a rural network of awareness and support and that's essential,' Deputy Cleere added.
The TD encouraged farmers who are feeling overwhelmed or struggling with their mental health to seek support.
'If you're feeling under pressure or finding it hard to cope, speak to someone, your agricultural adviser, your vet, your local IFA rep.
"They can connect you with the right supports. There is no shame in asking for help," Deputy Cleere said.
