Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture Michael Healy-Rae has called on dairy farmers to reflect on their work-life balance.
The Minister made his call at the recent Teagasc Moorepark Dairy Open Day where he was presented with findings of a recent Dublin City University (DCU) and Teagasc study among Irish farmers that showed 24% reporting burnout and 50% reporting sleep issues.
At the event, Dr. Siobhán O’Connor, DCU, highlighted that persistent poor sleep and burnout can lead to poor health and mental health issues, while Teagasc Health and Safety Specialist Advisor, Dr. John McNamara emphasised the close link between excessive workload and farm workplace injury levels.
The booklet for the dairy open day, which was sponsored by FBD Insurance, includes information on farmer health and safety and work organisation. The event booklet can be downloaded at https://teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/moorepark/moorepark-open-day/.
