Agriculture, Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Jim Bagnall has proclaimed the week of March 14 - 20 as Canadian Agricultural Safety Week in Prince Edward Island. The proclamation is aimed at highlighting the importance of following safe farming practices by farmers, farm families and workers.
“I want to commend the Prince Edward Island Federation of Agriculture, along with other farm organizations, for their hard work and dedicated efforts in the promotion of farm health and safety,” said Mr. Bagnall. “Safe farming practices are key to protecting individual health and well-being and ensuring the success of the farm operation.”
Mr. Bagnall said the Federation of Agriculture delivers the farm health and safety program with the financial support of his department. Over the past year, it has provided training for farmers, farm workers and young people. Numerous workshops were held across the province to introduce farmers to the Occupational Health and Safety Act, which now applies to the agriculture industry. The Federation also offers emergency first aid training with sponsorship from Farm Credit Canada.
“Farming has been termed as one of the most dangerous occupations in Canada, and I encourage everyone to make farm health and safety a priority throughout the coming year,” said Mr. Bagnall.
The Canadian Agricultural Safety Week is delivered by the Canadian Federation of Agriculture and the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association through the support of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and Farm Credit Canada.