The closure of rural Garda stations across Tipperary is being blamed as one of the factors contributing to a rise in farmers being targeted by rogue tradesmen.
There have been several incidents where farmers have been the victims of scam artists who are pressuring them into having work carried out on their lands and then extorting money out of them.
The issue of rogue gangs of criminals targeting rural areas across the country has been highlighted several times in recent months.
A recent report says that over 15 farmers have been victims of scams in the Roscrea area alone, a situation that is mirrored in other parts of the county.
Some farmers reported being threatened by a group of rogue tradesmen who are pressuring them into having work carried out and then extorting money from them; in some cases over 2 thousand euro has been demanded.
Fianna Fail candidate for the upcoming local elections Jackie Cahill says that rural isolation and the closure of smaller Garda stations is contributing to the problem.
Tim Cullinane, Chairman of North Tipp IFA agrees that the loss of local Garda stations has left some areas more vulnerable.
He says the organisation is very concerned for its members.
Jackie Cahill believes every area in the county should have a text alert scheme set up to give extra security to those that live alone.
