I am backing calls for a dedicated taskforce to fight rural crime, particularly in the agricultural sector. It is my belief that many rural farmers are living in real fear for their safety, which is a real concern these days with theft of valuables and livestock and machinery a major issue.

There is a real cause for more security in rural Ireland and farmers need to see more Garda presence on the road and on the land. People need to feel safe in their own homes and unfortunately in this year of 2018 they do not.