BE SAFE AND SECURE IN 2021 CAMPAIGN

BE SAFE AND SECURE IN 2021 CAMPAIGN

IFA, together with An Garda Síochána and FBD has launched a printed information pack for its members across the country that provides tips on how farmers and the rural community can stay safe and secure in their homes, on their farms and online in the months ahead.

This initiative highlights the need for vigilance in many areas with practical and straightforward information on safety, security and general wellbeing as well as the importance of looking out for your friends, family and neighbours.

IFA Countryside Chairman Brian Rushe said, “When we entered 2020 we never imagined the year that lay ahead of us. COVID-19 has fundamentally changed the way we behave at home, on our farms and in our businesses.”

“As we look ahead to 2021, we must continue to prioritise safety in our homes and look out for those that may need assistance in our communities. We are proud of the strong relationship that exists between ourselves, An Garda Siochàna and our insurance partners FBD. We hope this Guide will provide practical information to help and support you, your family and your neighbours in the months ahead.”

An Garda Siochana’s Assistant Commissioner Paula Hilman said, “Since my appointment in May 2020 I’m delighted to continue to build on the partnership between IFA and An Garda Siochàna, and we are delighted to support the IFA’s ‘Be Safe and Secure in 2021’ campaign. As we navigate through the winter period together, I want to reassure you that we in An Garda Síochána are here to help, to work with communities to ensure the support you need is available. If you need anything, please do not hesitate to contact your local Garda Station or phone your Local Authority Helpline. With dark evenings and mornings upon us, the need for road safety and ‘’Be Safe Be Seen’’ is as vital as ever. Whether waking, cycling or driving, preparing for the road trip is essential”.

 

December 17, 2020

New Garda Operation Model is Welcome

New Garda Operation Model is Welcome

IFA Countryside Chairman Richard Kennedy has reacted to the launch of the new Garda operating model by the Garda Commissioner, ‘A Policing Service for the Future’.

IFA is a contributor to the annual national Policing Plan.

He said, “It is our view in IFA that the current policing model is not working. We have lobbied consistently for an increased Garda presence in rural areas. The new proposed operating model will result in an additional 1,800 gardai working on the frontline, in the community. This is very welcome news, ensuring Gardai will be able to do the work they were trained for, out and about in rural areas, as opposed to sitting in offices filing paperwork.”

We support the Garda Commissioner on this initiative.

 

August 23, 2019

DEDICATED RURAL CRIME TASK FORCE NEEDED IN THE FIGHT AGAINST CRIME – KENNEDY

DEDICATED RURAL CRIME TASK FORCE NEEDED IN THE FIGHT AGAINST CRIME – KENNEDY

In response to today’s figures from the Gardai, IFA Deputy President Richard Kennedy said the reduction in household burglaries is welcome, but the figures confirm there is still a problem.

“We acknowledge that the Gardai have stepped up their efforts in targeting gangs operating in rural areas by increasing the number of patrols and checkpoints,” he said.

Richard Kennedy said it’s good to see the downward trend, but he was concerned that some household burglaries go unreported. “I would encourage people to report crimes to help Gardai in their efforts,” he said.

Richard Kennedy said there have been incidents of cross-border crime in recent months. IFA and the UFU have called for the establishment of a dedicated Rural Crime Task Force, specifically focused on border counties.

Their call follows an increase in the incidents of cattle theft in the area, which have had a devastating effect on the local communities.

“A more streamlined crime reporting system, immediate sharing of intelligence, and information exchange would increase the level of visibility and awareness, particularly where crime has been reported in border areas.” 

UFU President Ivor Ferguson said, “Over the last year, several serious incidents have occurred on farms in the region. The culprits are moving with ease and without fear of detection on both sides of the border, while farmers and rural dwellers live in real fear for their safety, which is compounded by geographic and service isolation. Theft of valuables from rural homes and of livestock and machinery from farms is also a major concern”.

May 14, 2019

RECOMMENDATIONS ON COMMUNITY POLICING & RURAL CRIME MUST BE IMPLEMENTED WITHOUT DELAY

RECOMMENDATIONS ON COMMUNITY POLICING & RURAL CRIME MUST BE IMPLEMENTED WITHOUT DELAY

IFA Deputy President Richard Kennedy has welcomed the publication today by the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Justice and Equality of its Report on Community Policing and Rural Crime.

Richard Kennedy said IFA has taken a proactive role in the area of crime prevention, but that more can and must be done by the Government, as evidenced by this report.

He highlighted how over the last year, several serious incidents have occurred on farms. Many farmers and rural dwellers live in real fear for their safety, which is compounded by geographic and service isolation. Theft of valuables from rural homes and of livestock and machinery from farms is also a major concern.

Richard Kennedy said, “IFA has said many times that there is a need for greater patrolling of rural Ireland. Farm families need to see a much greater Garda presence on the road. The JOC has agreed with us and included it as one of its key recommendations”.

A proposal to establish a dedicated Rural Crime Task Force in crime blackspots was suggested by the IFA in its presentation to the JOC last October. At the time, IFA highlighted how a similar UK Task Force has been successful in tackling rural crime. This has also been included in the list of recommendations.

“The Committee has done good work and produced a sensible, workable report. However, it will be a fruitless exercise if it left on a shelf gathering dust. The Minister for Justice, Charlie Flanagan and his officials must set out a clear timetable for implementation and IFA will be seeking a meeting with him to discuss this as soon as possible,” said Richard Kennedy.

March 28, 2019

IFA Deputy President Richard Kenned met recently with Kathleen O’Toole, Chair of the Commission on the Future of Policing as part of IFA’s efforts to combat rural crime and increase Garda resources in rural areas. (more…)

June 21, 2018