Ex-chief hits out at Garda closures, but guns no safeguard

A former top garda has blamed the closure of rural stations for creating fear in isolated communities but he warned homeowners against believing guns would keep them safe.

Retired assistant commissioner Martin Donnellan said he found “very disturbing” the results of an Irish Examiner/ICMSA poll showing more than eight out of 10 farmers felt they should be allowed own a gun to protect their property. He said he understood their frustration.

“There is no doubt that rural crime is expanding. Our road system is very good. We have people driving the length and breadth of the country in the one day and they will steal anything that is not chained down,” said Mr Donnellan.