Leaving a mark that will endure
A GROUP of independent Galway councillors have pooled their resources to purchase a machine to inscribe special security markings on their machinery and equipment.
The councillors forked out over €6,000 to purchase the Dot Peen marking machine and already members of the Athenry Men’s Shed have been trained on how to use them.
Cllrs Declan Geraghty, Tim Broderick, Declan Kelly, Gabe Cronnelly, James Charity, Jim Cuddy and Thomas Welby, Karey McHugh, Geraldine Donohue and Evelyn Parsons funded the purchase in an effort to try and tackle the ongoing problem of thefts from farmers, tradesmen and private houses.
Property Marking Ireland (PMI) supply the ‘Dot Peen’ machines which leave a permanent mark on equipment using a carbide pin to indent the marking surface with text and logos – the usual ‘engraving’ is the Eircode of the owner.
PMI Founder and Development Manager, James O’Neill, told the Farming Tribune that 18 local authorities across the country had now the use of one of the machines which he added could play a key role in deterring criminals from stealing equipment and tools.
“Where the system has been in place for four years in Monaghan, there has been an 87% drop in thefts.
“It means equipment can be immediately traced back to its rightful owner – at present only 4% of the 30% of stolen goods recovered can be reunited with owners,” said James O’Neill.
For more expensive items, for example such as ride-on lawnmowers – two markings are put in place, one in an obvious and clearly visible place but the other placed covertly where only the owner and Gardaí will know where it is.
For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.
Connacht Tribune Digital Edition App
Download the Connacht Tribune Digital Edition App to access to Galway’s best-selling newspaper.
Click HERE to download it for iPhone and iPad from Apple’s App Store, or HERE to get the Android Version from Google Play.
Or purchase the Digital Edition for PC, Mac or Laptop from Pagesuite HERE.
Get the Connacht Tribune Live app The Connacht Tribune Live app is the home of everything that is happening in Galway City and county. It’s completely FREE and features all the latest news, sport and information on what’s on in your area. Click HERE to download it for iPhone and iPad from Apple’s App Store, or HERE to get the Android Version from Google Play.