Minister highlights Agricultural Safety Week

Ed Byrne, Minister of Natural Resources, is pleased to take the opportunity today to remind Newfoundlanders and Labradorians that March 8�14 is Canadian Agricultural Safety Week. The theme this year is � Farm safety is MY business.

"I would encourage all farmers and producers in our province to make occupational heath and safety an ongoing and everyday priority in their business," said Minister Byrne. "It is in everyone�s interest to safeguard farm workers and to help those who are less experienced and new to agricultural work become aware of ways and means to protect themselves from potential harm."

The campaign this year examines various aspects of risk management in the agricultural sector with a special focus on young workers between the ages of 15 and 29. The ability to recognize and address hazards is an important part of farm safety. Owners and managers have a responsibility to ensure that all aspects of their work site are made safe and kept safe for the protection of their employees.

"I commend the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture, along with the Farmers with Disabilities � Farm Safety Committee and 4-H for their leadership on this topic and efforts to bring forward this important message to producers in our province."

Sponsored annually by the Canadian Federation of Agriculture, Canadian Agricultural Safety Week is an opportunity to build awareness around farm safety issues throughout Canada. Additional information on Canadian Agricultural Safety Week can be found at www.casa-acsa.ca.

Media contact: Ed Moriarity, Communications, (709) 729-5777, 728-9623

2006 03 09                           12:10 p.m.