Security worries in rural areas

TOO many people residing in rural areas are living in ‘an uneasy state of fear’ following the savage attack last month on a retired farmer in Sligo, according to a western farm leader.

Pat Murphy, Connacht IFA Chair, told the Farming Tribune that the latest savage attack on 73-year-old Tom Niland in Sligo had again raised serious issues about security and safety in rural areas.

“I know it from meeting people on a regular basis in rural areas that there is a sense of fear and unease out there, and especially so, if they are elderly or living alone.

“People living out the country have to have some sense of safety and security if they are to enjoy any quality of life and at the moment, they do not have that,” said Pat Murphy.

Tom Niland from Skreen – on the main N59 road from Ballina to Sligo – is currently on a life supporting machine at Sligo University Hospital after suffering what have been described as ‘horrific’ head and upper-body injuries in the aggravated burglary at his home on January 18 last.

This week, the IFA are to have a meeting in Dublin with Assistant Garda Commissioner, Paula Hillman, to discuss measures which can be put in place to improve security in rural areas.

IFA Deputy President, Brian Rushe, said that recent attacks on elderly people in rural communities were very concerning, adding that people had to feel safe living in their own homes.

“Whatever resources are needed to assist the Gardaí in their work have to be made available. We will be encouraging the farming community to provide whatever help they can to support the work of the Gardai. Apprehending those responsible requires a co-ordinated response from everyone,” he said.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.

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