‘Torrid’ dispute cited as Laois farmer admits stealing from neighbouring farm
The court was told relations soured after a motorway went through the farmer’s land
A Laois farmer admitted stealing goods valued at €2,000 from a neighbouring farmer.
Clive Parkinson (49) of Trumera, Mountrath appeared in court accused of criminal damage to a metal box and the theft of two Cheetah G303 fencers at Clonard, Mountrath between January 1, 2025 and March 28, 2026.
Sean Egan BL said the incidents related to “a fairly torrid dispute between two neighbouring farmers”.
Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby told the sitting of Portlaoise District Court that Gardaí received a report from the injured party on March 28, 2026 that his property had been stolen. He said a search warrant was obtained and Gardai located one of the stolen fencers.
The defendant was later interviewed and “he held his hands up and admitted he took two fencers” belonging to the injured party. Criminal damage was also caused to a box, said Sgt Kirby.
Mr Egan said his client was pleading guilty. He said his client purchased his land in 2005 and in 2007 a motorway was built through the land which resulted in a dispute with his neighbour who he had enjoyed good relations with.
“Over the past 19 years there has been a whole array of incidents,” said Mr Egan. He said these included “a number of incidents of criminal damage and theft in relation to his own farm.”
Mr Egan said his client “sought to de-escalate where possible” and it was the first time he had been in trouble.
He said his client “showed an exemplary level of cooperation with Gardaí” and had “put his hands up” and he had behaved in a “very out-of-character” way in committing the offences.
Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the accused man had never been in any trouble with Gardaí before.
Mr Egan said his client was a full time farmer and he wanted to pay compensation to the injured party. He requested two weeks to come up with the money and suggested a probation report.
Sgt Kirby suggested a victim impact statement and said he would like to get an exact costing on the equipment.
Judge Cody said he would order a probation and welfare and restorative justice report subject to €2,000 being paid in two weeks. He adjourned the case back to Portlaoise District Court on July 27 for payment of €2,000.