Gardaí investigate break-in at home of Michael Healy-Rae

Gardaí in Co Kerry are investigating a break-in at the home of the Kerry South TD Michael Healy-Rae on the outskirts of Kilgarvan.

The Independent TD, who is outspoken on rural crime, last year called for a relaxation of gun laws to allow rural dwellers to protect themselves.

He was not at home and is currently in the midwest region of the US, visiting relatives.

Kilgarvan is among nine villages in Kerry where Garda stations were closed in 2013. The village is now overseen by Kenmare and Killarney Garda stations.

The robbery attempt occurred at lunchtime on Friday when a number of individuals whom gardaí believed were equipped with heavy tools arrived at the Healy-Rae home.

Well-planned operation

Cutting equipment was used to gain entry through the back of the house in what gardaí believe was a well-planned operation.

However, investigators believe the thieves were disturbed by a house security alarm.

Simultaneously, Mr Healy-Rae’s wife, Eileen, was on her way to Kenmare from the family post office and petrol station and noticed unusual activity.

Gardaí say nothing was removed from the house. However, they are treating the matter seriously and are looking for a silver Jeep.

The incident is one of a number of burglaries in south Kerry in recent weeks.

Cars were broken into at Templenoe pier and money removed from them in recent days, while gardaí in Killarney have warned tourists to be vigilant at key locations.

Last year Mr Healy-Rae, who is the licensed owner of three guns, called for a relaxation of gun laws for rural dwellers in the context of the closing down of Garda stations.

He said whole swathes of the country in west Cork and Kerry were now without a police presence and were reliant on community alert.