Farmers claiming their lives have been shattered by sheep dip poisoning have ramped up their campaign for justice by launching a new group aiming to raise awareness of the issue.
Members of the new Sheep Dip Sufferers Support Group called the scandal ‘one of the biggest medical cover-ups in history’ and have brought the issue to the attention of MPs, including Shadow Health Secretary Andy Burnham.
Burnham, instrumental in the launch of the inquiry into the Hillsborough disaster, advised the farmers campaigning for justice to form a single group so that they have a stronger, more unified voice. He has previously said that it would be difficult for the campaigners to launch a full public inquiry into the issue, but that the disclosure of documents relating to the chemical and its effects was an important first step. The group has now requested for the disclosure of the documents via a Freedom of Information request.
Organophosphate (OP) was used in sheep dip during the 1970s onwards, and campaigners are claiming that potentially thousands of farmers have been affected by OP poisoning. There were very few health and safety guidelines issued with the chemicals, or none at all in some cases, the farmers explained.
Many of those involved in the group had to give up their work due to illness from OP poisoning.
Paul Wright, who has since left the industry but previously worked at a farm near Burnley, Lancashire, told the Farmers Guardian: “The OP poisoning is affecting my nervous system which controls everything. I am in absolute agony, my mental health is up and down and eventually I will not be able to walk.”
The group also has the backing of Brenda Sutcliffe, from Rochdale, who has tirelessly campaigned for justice regarding OPs after claiming the chemical played a part in the death of her husband, Harold.
For more information about the safety regulations surrounding sheep dip and the steps to take if you believe you have a claim for compensation, please click here.