A health information night for farmers is being run by the Laois branch of the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) and Macra na Feirme tonight (Wednesday, January 17) in Co. Laois.

The info night will take place in the Maldron Hotel, Portlaoise, and will get underway at 7:30pm.

A range of topics will be covered, including nutrition, physical education, first aid and CPR.

Chartered physiotherapist Alison Holmes and clinical dietitian with the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute (INDI) Deirdre Campbell will be giving talks on the night.

Also, a first aid and CPR demonstration and talk will be given at the event by Irish Red Cross members based in the Laois area.

The information night is being facilitated through Macra na Feirme Skillnet.

Speaking ahead of the event, Alison Holmes said: “For longevity in any career, being fit to practice is essential.

Tonight aims to provide those involved in agriculture with advice on staying healthy, injury-free, healthy eating habits and life-saving essentials – to ensure we all stay fit to farm!

The event is free-to-attend for everyone and all are welcome, Holmes added.

Macra Skillnet

Macra Skillnet was established in 2015 to provide relevant training and development for young farmers, with a sizeable discount for Macra na Feirme members. Non-Macra members can avail of training courses, though without the discount.

Some of the upcoming Macra Skillnet courses on offer in the coming weeks include: a hoofcare, lameness and mobility workshop, scheduled for January in Newcastlewest and Thurles; plus an emergency first aid and health course, taking place in counties Leitrim and Westmeath.

DIY AI and ultrasound scanning courses are also in the works for January, February and March, with dates yet to be confirmed. For those interested, further information – including course dates and booking information – is available on the Macra Skillnet website.