IFA appoints crime prevention manager

The IFA has appointed a rural crime prevention executive to support the development of its crime prevention policy and the extension of Theft Stop, a joint initiative with the gardaí.

Former garda Colin Connolly has been appointed to the position, the first of its kind in Ireland. He will work closely with the force on developing a range of crime prevention initiatives.

These will include setting up Theft Stop on a county-by-county basis through the IFA’s 946-branch network and the wider rural community.

IFA president Eddie Downey said the recent increase in the theft of agricultural equipment is of huge concern.

“The loss of equipment or livestock can be financially devastating for farmers, who like all rural dwellers, are very vulnerable,” said Mr Downey. “It’s for this reason that the IFA has partnered with An Garda Síochána to develop the Theft Stop crime prevention initiative.”

Garda assistant commissioner Jack Nolan said Theft Stop is another excellent example of effective crime prevention in partnership. “Working in tandem with established prevention methods, it will be an invaluable resource in the fight against rural crime,” he said.

FBD’s Christy Doherty said the proposal is a practical and cost-effective idea, that may well result in thieves thinking twice about engaging in their pursuits and will assist gardaí and others in identifying stolen goods after the event.

‘Theft Stop’ provides those who join the scheme with a unique security ID, which can be used to mark machinery and equipment,” said Mr Doherty.