Guidance systems and monitors from over 20 tractors, combines and harvesters were stolen in a theft spree over the weekend.

Thieves targeted John Deere machinery dealers in Meath, Laois and Wexford and took the software from the machines without any forced entry.

GreenStar displays and Starfire satellite receivers are two valuable components of John Deere tractors.

Targeted

Meath Farm Machinery in Kilberry, Co Meath, was one of the dealers targeted.

Managing director Ian Timmons told the Irish Farmers Journal that at least 14 screens and receivers had been taken.

Timmons estimated that between €80,000 and €100,000 worth of equipment had been stolen.

“You’re busting yourself to keep people in a job and then something like this happens. I’m just devastated and so are the staff, I feel like I’ve been stabbed through the heart,” he said.

Templetuohy

Thieves also targeted a number of Templetuohy Farm Machinery depots and customers.

Speaking to the Irish Farmers Journal, group service manager John Murray said at least seven screens had been stolen, along with receivers and corner posts from combines.

Software was taken from depots in Portlaoise and Enniscorthy, while two customers - one near Camolin and one near Portlaoise - had their tractors broken into.

Murray said the thieves seemed to be targeting GPS systems, but had taken other screens also.

He estimated that the thieves had taken equipment worth between €40,000 and €60,000.

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