Sinn Féin spokesperson on Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Matt Carthy TD, has said that the rise in burglaries and theft was another reminder that more Gardaí are needed on the beat in communities.

Deputy Carthy was speaking after the latest Central Statistics Office (CSO) crime figures showed burglaries rose by 10% in the 12 months to September last year, while violent burglaries rose by 15%.

Teachta Carthy said:

“A 10% increase in burglaries and 15% increase in violent burglaries is a cause for real concern. CSO figures released today also show an increase in kidnappings, firearms and explosive offences and public order offences.

“These figures and recent violent criminal incidents will further undermine people’s sense of safety. People don’t feel safe in their homes, in their communities, on our city streets or on public transport.

“Clearly one of the key issues here, both in terms of people’s sense of safety and in terms of deterrence, is the lack of garda visibility and the failure of the government to ensure we have enough Gardaí on the beat in communities.

“Under Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael, Garda numbers have declined at a time when the population of the state has increased. This is a real problem and it is why we have serious issues in terms of garda visibility in communities.

“With a further 1,640 members of An Garda Síochána eligible to retire in the next five years there is a clear need to increase the intake capacity for Garda training as a matter of urgency. We need to see action from the Minister for Justice on this without further delay.”