UFU attends Embrace service

UFU President Barclay Bell recently attended the third Embrace Farm Remembrance Service for the victims of farm accidents and their bereaved families, friends and neighbours held in Abbeyleix, Co. Laois.
Pictured Left to Right are John Hayes, rugby legend, Sean Finan, Macra President with Dr. Vanessa Woods, Agriaware, Barclay Bell, UFU President and Minster Andrew Doyle.Pictured Left to Right are John Hayes, rugby legend, Sean Finan, Macra President with Dr. Vanessa Woods, Agriaware, Barclay Bell, UFU President and Minster Andrew Doyle.
Pictured Left to Right are John Hayes, rugby legend, Sean Finan, Macra President with Dr. Vanessa Woods, Agriaware, Barclay Bell, UFU President and Minster Andrew Doyle.

The Ecumenical Service of readings, prayer, music and hymns was celebrated by a large group of families, relatives, friends and neighbours. The names of those lost were read out by members of the agri sector and participants in the service took part in readings and the presentation of wreaths and candles. UFU President, Barclay Bell took the role of candle bearer representing those who lost their lives through farm accidents over the years.

Speaking after the service Mr Bell said: “A number of families including children took part in this remembrance service. Each has a unique story to tell but they all share a common connection in that they have lost a loved one due to a farm accident. Some have lost parents, partners and friends. This service was an appropriate opportunity for these families to come together with the agricultural industry in an act of remembrance.”

He continued: “Embrace carry out terrific work to support bereaved farm families in Ireland. This year they had organised a family weekend allowing children and adults to come together.  The children took part in a bereavement workshop making candles and memory jars to contribute to the remembrance service.”

Mr Bell concluded: “We are currently in the midst of one of the busiest seasons of the farming year. I would urge all farmers to always take time to stop and consider the risks involved in working with machinery and livestock. Never take short cuts when it comes to safety on farm, it’s not worth risking your life or in some cases ending up with a serious injury.”

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