Warnings have been issued to those living rurally to be on the lookout for individuals that present as hunters but are in fact scanning areas and identifying property and stock that are then identified as targets for theft.
It’s also being claimed that illegal hunting with firearms has led to stock such as cattle and horses being shot.
In response Gardai and the National Parks and Wildlife service have outlined a joint protocol on the hunting of wildlife.
Patrick Rooney is the Chairperson of the Irish Beef and Lamb Association.
The North West based farming official is urging the public to report any suspicious activity to the Gardaí.
