Significant Resources Within an Garda Siochana Needed to Combat Rural Crime

Responding to the publication of the CSO Crime and Victimisation Report 2019, IFA Deputy President Brian Rushe said it highlighted the resources needed to tackle rural crime.

The figures reported in the CSO report are in line with other national reports.

“Illegal hunting and lurching is a major concern to farmers with trespass, criminal damage, animal worrying and intimidation the main issues associated with these activities,” he said.

IFA has been consistent in its call for greater visibility of An Garda Siochana, along with increased community policing and crime prevention initiatives.

“Increased Garda visibility, reporting of rural crime in the PULSE system, greater community engagement and quicker response times to crime are needed to address the concerns of the farming community and rural dwellers,” he said.

The IFA Deputy President said he would continue to work on these issues through the National Rural Safety Forum, which he co-chairs with a senior member of An Garda Siochana.