Dairy farmers have been called upon to reflect on their work-life balance, as a recent study undertaken by Dublin City University (DCU) and Teagasc has pointed to considerable sleep and burnout issues.

This urging on work-life balance came from Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine with special responsibility for Farm Safety, Michael Healy-Rae, T.D., who was presented with the DCU/Teagasc study research findings at the Moorepark Dairy Open Day on July 2.

Of note from this research was that 24% of Irish farmers reported burnout, while 50% reported sleep issues. And, at Moorepark, Dr Siobhán O’Connor, DCU, highlighted that persistent poor sleep and burnout can lead to poor health and mental health issues, while Teagasc Health and Safety Specialist, Dr John McNamara emphasised the close link between excessive workload and farm workplace injury levels.

Speaking at the launch of the research findings, Minister Healy-Rae said: “While farmers are under pressure, particularly during the busy spring period and at harvest, it is encouraging that this study found that by adopting more effective work organisation, workload can be reduced, leading to an enhanced and more sustainable lifestyle for dairy farmers and their families.”

Working effectively for a better work-life balance

Some of these practices were showcased in the Working Effectively Village at Moorepark. The People in Dairying Research Programme, which was managed by Dr Conor Hogan, Teagasc Research Officer, found that farms with more effective work organisation reported shorter working hours, more days off, and earlier finish times in spring compared to all other farms. These farmers also found it easier to attract and retain staff. The research revealed considerable scope to reduce workload and minimise farmer stress during the busy spring period.

Farmers in the study identified five key areas that can save time or cause hardship during spring, namely: calf management, workforce planning, weather, animal health, and work organisation. Earlier evening milking was a key practice to reduce total working hours, while early planning, smart investments, and initiative-taking workforce sourcing helped reduce stress and save time during the calving season.

Minister Healy-Rae added: “Practical measures which contribute to improving farmers’ work-life balance are essential for safe and productive farming. After a hard day’s work, it is important that there is time for family life and interests outside the farm gate. Research also shows that by planning and managing the workload, the risk of a safety incident is reduced.”

The booklet for the dairy open day, which was sponsored by FBD Insurance, includes information on farmer health and safety and work organisation. The Moorepark 2025 Open Day booklet (PDF) is available to download here.

Photo caption: Pictured (LtoR); Dr John McNamara, Teagasc Health and Safety Specialist Advisor, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine with special responsibility for Farm Safety, Michael Healy-Rae, T.D; Dr Siobhán O’Connor, DCU, and Dr Stan Lalor, Teagasc Director of Knowledge Transfer.