Reward offered to combat livestock theft

A reward fund of €10,000 is on offer for significant information leading to arrests in relation to livestock thefts.  

The reward is part of a new initiative launched by Crimestoppers, the Irish Farmers Association(IFA) and Gardai.

They are calling on members of the public and those in the farming community to come forward if they have information relating to the theft of livestock.

Theft of both cattle and sheep is an issue that affects all regions of Ireland, causing significant problems for the farmers who fall victim to the criminals. In one incident during 2014, one farmer had 17 of his 18 calves stolen by thieves, causing significant financial loss.

According to IFA President Eddie Downey, “the theft of cattle and sheep is a real issue for farmers. Apart from the financial loss, the trauma inflicted on farm families leaves them very vulnerable and stressed. This is something that comes up repeatedly at IFA County Executives around the country.”

He said “we are taking this initiative with the Gardai and Crimestoppers and putting up a reward of €10,000, to get significant information that will lead to the arrest and charge of individuals in connection with livestock theft.'

Chairman of Crimestoppers Tim Dalton explained that “Crimestoppers provides a fully confidential means for every citizen to report crime, without fear of recrimination. The call is free and the information is given completely anonymously. The service has consistently proved very valuable in eliciting information to assist investigations in both urban and rural Ireland. We hope this campaign will prove similarly successful in tackling livestock theft.”

Assistant Garda Commissioner Derek Byrne said “livestock theft is a problem that can be tackled if enough information is provided. I am appealing for members of the public, and in particular any member of the farming community, who have noticed or heard about suspicious activity around farms in their locality to come forward to either An Garda Siochana or to the confidential Crimestoppers 1850 250025 number.”

Anyone with information in relation to livestock theft, can contact their local Garda Station or Crimestoppers on 1800 25 00 25. Calls to Crimestoppers are free and anonymous.