Crime figures underscore need to protect Garda budget from further cuts – FF

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Justice Niall Collins has said new figures released today further demonstrate the need to protect frontline policing and support gardaí in tackling crime.

Data released by the Central Statistics Office shows a 33% increase in murder in the 12 months up to the end of June while there was 30% increase in kidnapping and related offences in the same period.

Deputy Collins said: “These figures prove gardaí need more support and more resources to tackle crime.  Sustained cuts to garda resources over the last four years have seriously damaged morale in the ranks and frontline policing needs to be protected.  I know many officers are also concerned about the garda fleet and the impact this is having on the force’s ability to carry out their duties.

“The increases in the number of murders recorded in the 12 months up to the end of June are very worrying.  Violent crime is a cause of huge concern and the Government needs to support gardaí in tackling this.

“I welcome the fact that burglaries have decreased but this is not the case for all parts of the country.  For instance the CSO figures show a significant increase in burglaries and theft offences in the Dublin region.  There was an increase of over 1,000 burglaries and related offences in the 12 month period while the number of thefts and related offences jumped by over 900.

“There are some positive elements in today’s crime figures but equally there are worrying trends that need to be addressed.  I think it is extremely important that the garda budget is protected for 2015.  I welcome the fact that new gardaí are in training in Templemore, they will be much needed additions to the garda ranks and more personnel are required to police communities and help protect the public.”