THERE HAS BEEN a 31% drop in the level of burglary crime in the first half of 2016 according to CSO figures.

The new CSO statistics compare crime trends for the twelve months ending 30 September 2016 with the previous twelve-month period.

Theft was down 15% and robbery was also down 11%. Overall, nine out of the fourteen crime categories in the CSO classification showed a decrease.

Operation Thor, which targets repeat burglary offender, was introduced this time last year.

The Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality Frances Fitzgerald welcomed the drop and reminded people to heed Garda advice to “Lock up and Light up” their homes to deter burglars.

Drink driving

However, some categories showed small scale increases, including a 6% increase in drink-driving offences.

Echoing recent calls from the gardaí and the Road Safety Authority the Tánaiste said:

It is simply not acceptable for anyone to drink and drive. No one can say they are unaware of the potential consequences. No more families should have to needlessly experience this time of year as one of great sadness and loss because of drink-driving.

Referring to the 6% increase in sexual offences, the Tánaiste highlighted the recent debates on the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Bill which is due to be enacted in early 2017.

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