Campaigners are calling for a dedicated officer with responsibility for older people in every Garda station in the country.

The scheme is already operating in Dublin, but Age Action Ireland says it needs to be extended after a spate of rural break-ins.

Among the latest victims is 90 year-old Johnny Carroll whose home in Balrath, County Meath was raided on Wednesday night.

The suspects - who are described as being in their 20s and of stocky build - were armed with spanners.