Farmers in Co Carlow have been invited to take part in a farmer wellbeing programme hosting two mart meetings with a focus on farmer health, safety and wellbeing.

The events will be held on Thursday 2 October from 5pm to 9pm at Tullow Mart and on Thursday 30 October from 5pm to 9pm at Leinster Mart on the Killeshin Road in Carlow.

They will feature talks on matters including succession, retirement, pensions, wellbeing, farm safety and crime prevention.

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Free refreshments, free health checks, free first aid and sun-smart kits, as well as free haircuts are to be provided to attendees.

The programme is funded by the Department of Agriculture and Minister of State Michael Healy-Rae has urged local farmers to attend.

“I am delighted to be able to provide funding for this comprehensive programme, which aims to help address the often-overlooked challenges farmers face around farm safety, as well as physical and mental health,” Minister Healy-Rae said.

Future

“I am asking farmers in Carlow and the surrounding areas to take the time to attend one of these events.

“It is by acting now, farmers can protect their safety, health and wellbeing and help secure their family’s future in farming.”

Director of services at Carlow County Council Michael Brennan explained that the events are intended to provide information and guidance to farmers on managing stress.

“Farmer physical and mental health often take a backseat, with the important tasks of managing a farm taking precedent,” Brennan commented.

“The demands of modern-day farming can place increased stress and concerns on farmers and their families.”

Carlow County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Ken Murnane said that farmers should not pass up the opportunity to meet with the industry organisations and sectoral specialists due to attend.

“We will have free farm first aid kits and lots more on the day. It's an opportunity to address the many challenges faced by farmers today, from mental health to safety on the farm."

The programme’s partners include Carlow County Council, Teagasc, Healthy Carlow, Leinster Mart, Tullow Mart, the IFA and the Department.