IFA to Meet Asst Commissioner from An Garda Síochána on Rural Crime

IFA to Meet Asst Commissioner from An Garda Síochána on Rural Crime

IFA Countryside Chairman Brian Rushe said the recent attacks on elderly people in rural communities were very concerning.

IFA will be meeting the Assistant Commissioner of An Garda Síochána Paula Hillman next week to discuss what measures can be taken to make communities safer.

“Whatever resources are needed to assist the Gardaí in their work have to be made available. We will be encouraging the farming community to provide whatever help they can to support the work of the Gardaí. Apprehending those responsible requires a co-ordinated response,” he said.

Brian Rushe said the victims of these attacks were targeted by gangs and subjected to horrific assaults. “Nobody should feel under threat in their own home.”

“The communities of these victims now feel vulnerable and unsafe because of the attacks. We will be working with Assistant Commissioner Paula Hillman to develop community policing that gives a greater sense of security to those living in rural areas,” he said.

Ends.

February 10, 2022

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

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