Farmers are being urged to take part in a survey as part of an independent study of agriculture crime in Ireland.

The research has been commissioned by the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers Association which has assured participants that their responses will be treated as anonymous.

Dr Kathleen Moore Walsh, a lecturer in law, and Louise Walsh, a lecturer in business, at Waterford Institute of Technology will carry out the research.

Data collected will help farmers, interest groups, and legislators to make informed decisions, particularly regarding finite resources, and help to formulate strategies to address agriculture crime.

The ICSA said the survey — the first of its kind — will assess the impact of rural crime on farmers.

Rural Development Committee chairman Seamus Sherlock said the the survey will focus on losses in all areas of farm life as well as income and tax implications for victims.

“We know that not all agriculture crimes are reported. This much-needed study will provide valuable insights into the true nature, extent, and implications of all agriculture crime,” he said.

Mr Sherlock said the ICSA is urging all farmers to take part in the online survey at www.icsaireland.ie.