IFA, in partnership with Croí Heart & Stroke Charity, has announced the rollout of the 2025 Farmer Health Checks Programme.
This initiative is supported by DAFM after an open call for farm safety, health and wellbeing projects.
Farmer Health Checks will be set up at livestock marts across the country over the next 14 weeks, along with checks at the Tullamore Show next month and the National Ploughing Championships in September.
See the full list of locations and dates here.
Speaking at the launch of the programme at Ballymahon Livestock Mart in Longford, IFA President Francie Gorman appealed to farmers to take the time to attend their nearest health check and to be more conscious of their health in challenging times for agriculture.
“As a farmer and IFA President, I am delighted that we are running this important project once again, with the support of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.”
“Following a very successful rollout last year, this initiative provides a great opportunity for farmers to participate in a health check process at a time and place that suits them. This year’s launch is also timely as it falls during Farm Safety Week. Having peace of mind that your health is good is important in facing daily tasks that carry risks”, he said.
Minister of State with special responsibility for Farm Safety, Michael Healy-Rae, said he is delighted to support this expanded programme which will help address the health and wellbeing challenges faced by the farming community and build on the success of last year’s pilot programme.
“Last year, almost half of the participants who availed of the health checks presented with elevated blood pressure or cholesterol levels. This demonstrates the need for farmers to prioritise their health and wellbeing, and I am urging all farmers to take the time to avail of these free health checks.”
IFA Farm Family and Social Affairs chair, Teresa Roche, said farming is a way of life that brings unique pressures.
“Often the focus is on the health of our livestock and land rather than on our own health and wellbeing. This programme is a practical reminder that looking after yourself is part of running a strong, sustainable farm.”
Chief Executive of Croí Heart and Stroke Charity, Mark O’Donnell, said Croí is proud to continue its partnership with the IFA on this important initiative.
“Up to 80% of heart disease and stroke is preventable, and these free health checks give farmers a real chance to take control of their health. By bringing early detection and expert advice directly to marts, we’re making it easier for farmers to take a simple, practical step that could change, or even save, their lives.”