Surge in burglaries emphasises need to protect community garda resources – Collins

Published on: 28 September 2012


The surge in burglaries, fraud and petty crime in the first half of this year emphasises the need to protect community garda resources, according to Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Justice Niall Collins.

Reacting to the latest CSO crime statistics, Deputy Collins has raised particular concerns about the 10.3% increase in burglaries, the 43% increase in thefts from a person and the 93% increase in robbery of cash or goods in transit in the year to the end of June 2012.

“There were 28,623 burglaries in year to the end of June.  That’s 28,623 ordinary families and individuals around the country who had their homes or business targeted by criminals,” explained Deputy Collins.

“In addition to this, thefts and muggings have surged by 43% over the 12 month period.  This is an extremely worrying trend.  It is further evidence of the fact that ordinary people in communities across the country are being victimised by criminals every day.

“These figures further highlight the absurdity of Minister Shatter’s policy of closing and downgrading garda stations across the country.  The Minister has already shut down 39 garda stations and downgraded dozens more in the first half of this year, and with the rate of burglaries up significantly, he is now in the process of planning a second round of cuts to local garda stations.   People in isolated communities and older people in particular are feeling increasingly vulnerable in their homes, and they need the safety and reassurance of a visible garda presence in their area.

“I commend the work of the gardaí involved in Operation Fiacla.  They must be given every support necessary to track down the criminals who are targeting homes and businesses across the country. I am also urging Minister Shatter to pull back from his dangerous policy of reducing the visible garda presence in our communities.”

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