The serving garda said garda numbers are even worse in Castlerea than in Tuam, which he serves.

Tom Cunningham was speaking at a public meeting about rural crime in his home parish of Glinsk last night.

A serving garda, speaking at the meeting, said he would agree with most of what has been said at tonight's meeting.

Experts from the US and throughout Europe will take part in the event in Lough Key Forest Park next September.

Martina O'Connor has been selected to run in Roscommon-Galway, whilst Carol Okeke will contest the Longford-Westmeath constituency.

Fine Gael councillor Enda McGloin says they're a big drawback when it comes to attracting tourism and investment.