1 OCTOBER 2018
ICSA rural development chairman Seamus Sherlock has said the rise in robberies in the latest CSO figures for recorded crime are cause for real concern. “These figures are alarming to say the least. Robbery implies the use of force and a 15% rise in these types of incidents will no doubt cause widespread fear in rural Ireland where people feel most vulnerable.”
The statistics released today also reveal an increase in the level of theft and related offences. “Again, those living in rural Ireland will feel most exposed. Incidents of theft have risen to 68,248 in number and we must remember that each of these crimes has an emotional as well a financial impact. The days of there being a Garda station in every village are long gone unfortunately, so the onus is very much on remaining vigilant in our own communities. Particularly now as the evenings draw shorter it is vitally important to look out for one another.”
“These efforts are of course supported by various community policing initiatives. However, something isn’t working and people are still living in fear. It is clear now that more resources will have to be allocated if there is to be any hope of a meaningful reduction in crime statistics.”
ENDS
