Ulster Farmers’ Union President Ian Marshall has stressed that rural crime is becoming more and more of an issue following confirmation from leading rural insurer NFU Mutual that the value of stolen goods from farms have cost Northern Ireland’s rural economy a startling £3.9 million in 2013, which is up 15% from £3.4 million in 2012.

President Ian Marshall said; “The rural crime figures published today (Monday 11th August) indicate that this is a major issue which must be dealt with head on. The unfortunate reality is that farmers are having valuable livestock and machinery stolen on a regular basis which is having a devastating impact on their businesses and families".

Source and read more: Ulster Farmers Union