Ulster Unionist MEP Jim Nicholson and Agriculture spokesperson Jo-Anne Dobson MLA have expressed their deep sadness following the death of 10 year old Aaron McCauley on the family farm near Moneyslane.
Speaking from the annual Clogher Valley Show Mr Nicholson said: "As always, Clogher Show attracted visitors and exhibitors from across Northern Ireland and further afield.
“Shows such as this are always a good opportunity to speak to farmers and their families about the issues affecting them, unfortunately given the recent tragic deaths as a result of farm accidents farm safety was one of the main topics of conversation.
“There are many risks and hazards associated with farming and recent incidents are a stark reminder of the dangers. There is however information and advice available to help minimise the risk and prevent farm accidents.
“Many at last Wednesday’s show were visiting the Health and Safety Executive stand to discuss ways of improving farm safety and I would urge all farm businesses to put the guidance that is available into practice."
Commenting Upper Bann MLA and party Agriculture spokesperson Jo-Anne Dobson said: "Farming is a family business, as well as a lifestyle. Sometimes three or four generations of the one family work side-by-side on the farm and as the volume of the work increases, so too do the risks of accidents.
“Farming families rely on tight bonds of love and I know from my family's experience that our two boys both benefited so much from growing up on the farm. For young children a farm can be full of fun and adventure, but we always need to be mindful of the dangers.
“As a member of a farming family I cannot help but think that it could so easily have been a neighbouring farmer or even a member of my family and I am sure that farmers across Northern Ireland will be having those same thoughts.
"Attitudes towards farm safety have been changing and there are always ways to reduce risk without interfering in the everyday running of the farm. I would encourage people to take an interest in the work of the Health and Safety Executive and to take on board the sound advice which they can give.
"Clogher Valley Show is a centre-piece event in the agricultural calendar and I send my congratulations to all the CVAS members as well as the winners, runners up and all the exhibitors for another fantastic show."
