MEP raises issue of mental health problems among farmers in meeting with commissioner
Maria Walsh MEP with agriculture commissioner Christophe Hansen in Strasbourg last week
THE epidemic of mental health problems among farmers must act as a wake-up call for EU policy makers, MEP Maria Walsh has told the European commissioner for agriculture Christophe Hansen. The MEP is a member of the European Parliament’s Agriculture Committee and used the meeting with the agriculture commissioner in Strasbourg last week to raise the concerns of Irish farmers.
Ms Walsh said: “Those in power are failing to take the mental health challenges of farmers seriously, leading to an avoidable loss of life across Europe.
“It is widely accepted and evidenced that farming is one of the most dangerous jobs in Europe. Fatalities in the sector are 233% higher, and accidents 18% higher, than in other industries. However, too many people overlook the dangers presented by the epidemic of mental health problems amongst our farmers.
“A 2023 study from UCD showed that 20% of Irish farmers surveyed had suicidal thoughts in the two previous weeks, and nearly 40% reported experiencing moderate to extremely severe stress.
“I believe commissioner Hansen has a unique and personal understanding of this issue. I hope this will lead to tangible solutions, and crucially financial investment, coming from the commission over the coming months. A welcome first step towards this is the commissioner’s commitment to featuring mental health in his upcoming ‘Vision for Future of Agriculture’ document.
“Along with mental health, commissioner Hansen and I discussed a range of issues impacting Irish farmers. I urged the commission to ensure the continuation of our nitrates derogation, and I shared the concerns of Irish farmers around the Mercosur trade deal.
“I welcome commissioner Hanson’s commitment to prioritising easy yet impactful wins, such as CAP reforms that can be achieved in the short term. The commissioner highlighted the potential threat of the ongoing war in Ukraine as well as the Trump presidency on the agricultural sector. I also look forward to welcoming commissioner Hansen to Ireland next year.”
