Lockhart urging farmers to ‘Stop and Think SAFE’

Carla Lockhart MP • April 24, 2024

The DUP’s Parliamentary Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs spokesperson Carla Lockhart MP is reiterating her message warning farmers to prioritise health and well-being and stay safe.

The message comes following reports of a recent incident near Larne in County Antrim, when two men, aged in their 30’s and 60’s, were taken to hospital for emergency treatment following a ‘near miss’ involving slurry gas.

 

“Slurry is one of the four main hazards and causes of death and serious injury on Northern Ireland farms,” said the Upper Bann MP. “When the slurry ban was lifted in early February, I urged farmers to take all the necessary precautions. Slurry is highly toxic and contains noxious and odourless gases, carbon dioxide, ammonia, methane and the most-deadly of all, hydrogen sulphide.

 

“I appreciate the persistent wet weather has delayed seasonal farm activities, and farmers are under pressure to turn livestock out to grass, and catch up on field work such as slurry spreading and fertiliser sowing. Last weekend saw the first blink of sunshine and dry weather in almost eight months and farmers were making the most of it.”

 

Ms Lockhart continued:”I am asking to farmers to Stop and Think SAFE. The Health and Safety Executive has published extensive guidelines and advice, all of which is easily accessible on its website.

 

“The Farm Safety Partnership campaign aims to tackle the four main causes of on-farm accidents. SAFE stands for: Slurry, Animals, Falls and Equipment. I am also asking farmers to exercise extreme caution when working with livestock, especially stock bulls, and cows and heifers at calving.

 

“Farm accidents are tragic, and can result in major life-changing injuries and fatalities. The impact is devastating for farming families and rural communities. I am urging everyone to familiarise themselves with the guidelines and follow the safety advice.”

 

Ms Lockhart also acknowledges that many farmers are isolated and experiencing financial difficulties due to rising overhead costs, poor farmgate prices and other unpredictable challenges.

 

“While rewarding, farming poses personal and mental health challenges for farmers on a daily basis. I welcome the valuable work of charities such as Rural Support which offers free confidential, impartial guidance and support on a range of issues including health and well-being, financial issues, and family disputes.

 

“The Farm Safety Foundation, or Yellow Wellies campaign, is another UK charity aimed at addressing poor mental health, and also engaging with inspiring young farmers aged between 16 to 40 years old. I would urge local young farmers to watch out for Farm Safety Week (22nd to 26th July, an initiative focused on raising awareness, and educating those working in agriculture about the simple things they can do to make farms safer for everyone.”

Share

By Carla Lockhart MP October 22, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has tabled Early Day Motion 2028 in the House of Commons, calling on the Government to reject any proposals to introduce mandatory digital identification (ID) cards across the United Kingdom.
By Carla Lockhart MP October 22, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has paid tribute to the strength and determination of those living with Parkinson’s following her attendance as guest speaker at the County Armagh Parkinson’s Group.
By Carla Lockhart MP October 22, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has paid tribute to the strong sense of community across the area following a busy Saturday spent visiting local events in support of two fantastic causes.
By Carla Lockhart MP October 22, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has paid tribute to the pupils, staff, and community of Hart Memorial Primary School, Portadown, following a special 90th Anniversary Service of Thanksgiving held in St Columba’s Church, Portadown.
By Carla Lockhart MP October 22, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed a series of decisive steps announced by Communities Minister Gordon Lyons MLA to tackle the growing impact of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) across Northern Ireland, including here in Upper Bann.
By Carla Lockhart MP October 22, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed news that three local bands have been awarded a total of £26,514 under the Department for Communities’ Funding for Marching Bands Scheme. 
By Carla Lockhart MP October 21, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has once again voiced her strong support for the Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI) campaign, standing with women from across the United Kingdom who continue to seek justice after being unfairly impacted by changes to the State Pension age.
By Carla Lockhart MP October 19, 2025
New Title
By Carla Lockhart MP October 17, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart was honoured to join the McKeever family from Long Meadow Farm, during this week’s Royal visit by the Prince and Princess of Wales.
By Carla Lockhart MP October 15, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has expressed deep concern following confirmation that an invasive Asian Hornet was discovered recently in the Dundonald area.