Farmers are asking for increased Garda numbers to tackle rural crime

Farmers are asking for increased Garda numbers to tackle rural crime.

They say gangs of men and dogs are coming onto private land and working farms across the country - to threaten families and livestock.

IFA Deputy President Brian Rushe says hundreds of farmers have attended meetings up and down the country to share information and express serious fears for their safety.

  Brian Rushe is seeking a meeting with the Minister for Justice Helen McEntee for a commitment to increase Garda numbers to tackle rural crime.