There has been a reduction of 9% in the value of objects stolen from farms in the past year, and animal theft has decreased by 3%, according to Pat Leahy, An Garda Síochána assistant commissioner in the Dublin metropolitan region, with responsibility for community engagement and public safety.

Rural policing and station closures are back in the spotlight after a Garda survey found that people living farthest from a Garda station reported the highest dissatisfaction levels with the service provided to the local community.