Rural independent TDs are to call for a review of trespass laws, aimed at strengthening the rights of farmers and land owners to protect their property and their person, in the Dáil on Tuesday evening.

The group will call for the establishment of a dedicated rural crime task force to ensure all relevant departments coordinate with An Garda Síochána to identify and address the specific challenges when dealing with rural crime.

Immediate review of bail laws

The TDs will also call on the Government to conduct an immediate review of the operation of the bail laws, specifically with respect to addressing the provision of free legal aid to repeat offenders and identifying possible abuses of the scheme.

Speaking on the group’s behalf, Independent TD Mattie McGrath said that the issue of rural crime is now a consistent feature of community life and must be addressed in new and innovative ways where necessary.

There are simple things that can also be done ... to create a greater sense of protection in rural Ireland

“Our motion makes some very specific long-term recommendations with respect to identifying and preventing rural crime and introducing greater fairness to the operation of the justice system.

“We remain convinced however, that there are simple things that can also be done in the immediate term to create a greater sense of protection in rural Ireland.

“One of the most obvious is the need to increase Garda visibility in rural communities. People want to see the local Garda on patrol, not just for the protection of property against theft, but also for peace of mind on a day-to-day basis,” he said.

Isolation

The Tipperary TD said that where that is not possible due to cuts or station closures, people feel increasingly isolated and vulnerable.

“What we want to say is that rural communities are very much open to active collaboration with the gardaí and with all the various agencies and departments that can help in reducing the incidence of rural crime.

“That is why we will be pushing for a dedicated rural crime task force to be established on a permanent basis where such collaboration can be targeted and focused to achieve the best possible outcomes,” McGrath said.

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