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Some 862 incidents of trespassing have been reported to gardaí to date this year, backing up growing farmer concern over the issue.
Figures obtained by the Irish Farmers Journal refer specifically to trespassing on land and enclosed areas and highlight particular issues for certain counties.
Galway had the highest number of trespassing incidents, with 79 reported this year, followed by Limerick and Kildare with 77 and 71 incidents reported, respectively.
CSO figures show that, since 2013, Limerick has recorded the highest number of trespassing incidents nationally, with 784 reported – over double the national five-year average.
Farmers have highlighted increasing issues with illegal hare coursing and often report feeling powerless when faced with groups of men hunting with dogs.
Speaking to the Irish Farmers Journal, Garda Sergeant Declan O’Carroll urged farmers to contact gardaí immediately if they witnessed trespassers on their property.
“There is an issue with illegal hare coursing,” O’Carroll said.
“I’ve been contacted by individuals and attended meetings on the matter, and concerns are growing over individuals hunting at night with lights and dogs.”
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