‘Non-national farm workers present new opportunities for learning for Irish farmers, but safety is an issue with those whose language skills are limited,’ according to ICSA Rural Development Chairman John Flynn. ‘These workers bring with them skills built up over generations in their countries of origin, and it can be of reciprocal benefit, as the visitors can learn updated techniques in use on Irish farms, and Irish farmers can learn from other traditions.’ ‘These immigrant farm workers are filling the gap left by the exodus from farming by Irish people, and may well expand into other agricultural roles in time. There is a duty of care on all farmers to treat their farm workers fairly and to help keep them safe. With an obvious barrier like language, extra cautions must be taken to ensure that everyone on the farm understands and observes the highest safety standards.’
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