The Association of Farm and Forestry Contractors in Ireland (FCI) has donated €1,000 to Embrace FARM in recognition of the charity's 'invaluable support' for the farming community.

The donation took place at the charity's annual ecumenical remembrance service, held in the Church of the Most Holy Rosary, Abbeyleix, Co. Laois yesterday (Sunday, June 28).

Embrace FARM offers support to farm families in the aftermath of a serious injury or sudden bereavement, offering a compassionate community to share, heal, and connect.

The annual ecumenical service offers an opportunity to remember and honour loved ones who have been lost or injured in farm accidents.

FCI said it was “delighted to attend the event and support the ongoing work of Embrace FARM" by donating €1,000 on behalf of its members.

Embrace FARM

Embrace FARM was established by husband and wife, Brian and Norma Rohan in 2014, following the tragic loss of Brian’s father Liam in a farming accident.

The not-for-profit organisation is the first of its kind to support the farming community and families of Ireland who, like them, have experienced the impact of serious injury and sudden death.

Norma Rohan reflected on the organisation’s growth over the past 13 years: “The agricultural sector continues to be resilient against all of the changes that affects its people both and inside and outside the farm gate every day.

"Our remembrance service continues to be a pivotal space for farm families to take the time to remember those they have lost or who have face life-changing circumstances.

"It is our opportunity to give thanks and show our appreciation to the farming community when they need it most.”

Support

FCI managing director Ann Gleeson Hanrahan said: “The Embrace FARM annual ecumenical remembrance service is an event that FCI has supported for many years.

“Through the tragedy of their own loss, Brian and Norma Rohan have provided invaluable support to many agricultural contracting and farming families who have experienced serious injury or sudden bereavement.”

Hanrahan went on to describe Embrace FARM as a very worthwhile initiative.

She added: “Everyone hopes that they will never need to call on their important services, but nevertheless, the farm and forestry contractors of Ireland respect and appreciate the vital work that this voluntary organisation carries out.”