The farmer, who doesn't want to be named, said the thieves took a builder's trailer and 4 tonnes of fertilizer from his yard.

They broke the padlock securing the entrance of the farm and loaded the trailer with the fertilizer, which was worth an estimated €1,500.

"There was an attempted break-in before but they weren't able to get past the lock," said the farmer. "I have informed the Gardaí and they are investigating the robbery.

"I suspect the theft was planned. My farm is 150 metres off the road and they only took the small bags of fertilizer," he added.

He said there have been a few thefts reported in the area in recent weeks, but this is the first time fertilizer has been stolen.

"Farmers are shocked and surprised about the fertilizer being targeted. No-one has heard of that happening before.

He said farmers should be aware of the risk of theft.

"Take nothing for granted," he said. "Farmers should be know they could be watched by thieves.

"They should also check out their insurance. Mine didn't cover the theft. Read the fine print," he concluded.