Farmers report rise in 'dangerous people' trespassing and hunting illegally

IFA deputy president Alice Doyle has called for dedicated Rural Crime units to tackle the surge in illegal hunting and lurching

Manager Vincent Cashman pictured with rescue lurcher, Percy, at the CSPCA centre in Mahon. He said that lurchers are now one of the main breeds being cared for at their animal refuge. Picture: Chani Anderson

Intimidation of rural communities by gangs amid a surge in illegal hunting, lurching and related trespass offences has been condemned as “outrageous” by Ireland’s leading farming body.

IFA deputy president Alice Doyle said her organisation is receiving regular reports from members across the country indicating a rise in these activities. Farmers and landowners are fearful about their personal safety as a result of threats and intimidation from such gangs illegally accessing their property, Ms Doyle said.