An Ennistymon resident admits she still waits to see her son smile through the back window three years on from his tragic death in a farm accident.
It comes ahead of an event this month in aid of Embrace Farm, which offers support to farm families impacted by injury and death.
John Brennan was just 13 years old when the tractor he was driving overturned on April 23rd 2020, leaving him with fatal injuries.
The incident took place on his family farm after he had told his parents he was helping out on a neighbour’s farm.
It’s understood John was driving down a steep portion of the farm when he lost control of the vehicle, causing it to overturn and slide almost 30 metres, which resulted in him being crushed to death.
John’s father, David Brennan says one of the most difficult aspects is not knowing why he undertook the journey.
According to HSA data, farm accidents made up 50% of all workplace deaths last year, with 12 such fatalities having taken place across the country.
Farm vehicles and machinery accounted for 59% of deaths, with falls from heights, falling objects and slurry drowning also being significant contributing factors.
John Brennan’s mother Sharon says that more than three years after her son’s tragic death, they are still grappling with the reality of never seeing him again.
A Tractor Run will get underway in Lahinch on Wednesday, December 27th in aid of Embrace Farm, which is Ireland’s only support network for farm families impacted by injury and death, and currently supports over 400 farm families nationwide.
Ennistymon farmer John Vaughan, who’s involved in Moonagh Milk and is organising the event, believes the work the organisation does is invaluable to the farming community.
You can listen to the full interview here:
