Republic of Ireland-Farm accidents increase.

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND.

FARM DEATHS NEARLY DOUBLE.

There were 20 reported deaths on farms in Ireland for 2008, compared with 11 for 2007. Both figures are very high for such a small country, according to government spokesman minister Billy Kelleher.

There were 62 % caused by tractors and 13 % by fall and 13 % by animals. The minister said the figures are " worrying" and has called for new safety measures to be imposed, that have been discussed with no action for 4 years, according to the minister.