The Garda Commissioner has said at least 500 new Gardai are to be recruited next year. 

The Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald made the announcement in Templemore earlier as 94 Gardai graduated.

Middle ranking gardai however say the force is under-resourced and are calling for money to be ringfenced within the budget to fight crime.

Deputy General Secretary of the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors John Jacob says it is good news but the numbers have to be put into perspective:

O'Sullivan also stated that rural crime remains a priority for the force.

Earlier, the AGSI called on Minister for Justice Frances Fitzgerald to prioritise Garda resources in this year's budget following an increase in crime, particularly in rural areas.

O’Sullivan was speaking for the first time since the death of a man in County Limerick after he disturbed thieves at his home last month.

Commissioner O’Sullivan says resources are being deployed locally;

The most recent CSO figures show that there were 420 crimes a month reported on farms throughout the country in the first half of 2014.

The AGSI is now looking for a legitimate policing authority in order to provide a more robust service.