With the Summer almost upon us and the school holidays fast approaching it is possible that many young people in Northern Ireland will be involved in the day to day working of a farm. As a result, the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) have reminded parents and employers that they should be aware of the Agriculture (Safety of Children and Young Persons) Regulations (Northern Ireland) SR 2006/335. The legislation is in addition to the normal licensing requirements for tractor drivers, and requires that anyone between the ages of 16-18 have attended and passed a nationally recognised training course in the use of tractors as well as owning a provisional or full driving licence. Those aged between 13-16 also need the qualification to drive tractors on a farm and be involved in agricultural activities.
CAFRE introduced a new course in August 2006 to meet the requirements of this legislation, and since its introduction they have trained over 400 young people in the safe use of tractors. During July and August this year, they will be continuing these courses with around 100 running at their campuses in Antrim, Enniskillen and Cookstown. The only charge is a £20 cost for accreditation and they are open to the children and employees of farmers and growers.
Agriculture is the only industry in Northern Ireland that allows children between 13-16 to operate machinery and tractors, and had seen 18 deaths in ten years prior to 2004, when a Farm Health and Safety Awareness Campaign was started. This is an on-going initiative, which we reported in the March and April 2007 Monthly Bulletins.
