Minister Proclaims Agricultural Safety Week

Agriculture Minister Neil LeClair has proclaimed March 12 to 18 as Canadian Agricultural Safety Week in Prince Edward Island. The proclamation is part of a national campaign to highlight the importance of farm safety.

The theme of this year’s campaign is Manage More Than Just Your Back. It is aimed at encouraging farmers to find ways to reduce the risk of sprains, strains and falls. Canadian Agricultural Safety Week is delivered by the Canadian Federation of Agriculture and the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association with the support of Farm Credit Canada and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.

“The Department of Agriculture is proud to support farm safety programs in this province through the Prince Edward Island Federation of Agriculture,” said Mr. LeClair. “I encourage everyone to review their farm safety practices to ensure the health and well-being of farmers, their families and farm workers throughout every season of the year.”

Mr. LeClair said that farmers are exposed to a wide number of risks and hazards, and that farmers are to be commended for the many positive steps they have taken to make their operations a safe working environment.

“Farm safety should be a priority for everyone involved in the industry,” said Mr. LeClair. “I wish everyone a safe and healthy 2008.”