The Garda Commissioner Noirin O'Sullivan has moved to reassure rural communities they are 'not alone' amid growing concerns about burglaries.

Commissioner O'Sullivan says the moratorium on recruitment had led to 'pinches' in garda resources - and that the majority of newly trained officers are being deployed to rural areas to tackle the problem.

She is urging people to light up their homes to deter burglars as part of its 'Supporting Safer Communities' campaign.

Ms O'Sullivan says gardaí will be a lot more visible in rural areas in the months ahead.

Pat Hennessy is chairman of Laois Irish Farmers Association (IFA). He told Newstalk Breakfast farms are particular targets.

Minister for Rural Affairs Ann Phelan says while investments are being made, more needs to be done.