asked the Minister for Justice if he is aware that certain German manufacturers have intimated to Irish importers that because of the alleged high incidence of pilferage at Irish ports they may be unable to get German underwriters to insure goods consigned to Ireland; what action the gardaí can take to prevent pilfering; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Port Pilferages.
75.
I have no information about any such complaint as is mentioned in the question. I assume he question relates in particular to Dublin. The public authority primarily concerned in the Dublin docks is the Dublin Port and Docks Board, who maintain their own force of harbour police under the Dublin Port and Docks Act, 1869.
As regards ports in general, it will be appreciated that the gardaí could not possibly keep a detailed watch on all property at the docks. Pilfering often takes place in enclosed premises during normal working hours when large numbers of people are moving about, so that the problem is essentially similar to shoplifting. Accordingly, the main responsibility for maintaining supervision must rest on the owners of the property or their agents. In fact a number of companies with business in the docks employ special security officers. The Dublin crime prevention unit of the Garda have had discussions with security staff employed at the docks with a view to giving them advice on measures for tightening up the security systems that are in operation.
Does the Minister not realise that if there is a worsening of the position it is going to affect the country very seriously? In the last six months two increases have been made and although the volume of work in Dublin may mean the incidence is greater it applies to all ports in Ireland?
Two increases in what?
In the insurance payable on goods which are being sent to Ireland because of the high incidence of pilferage at all ports.
As I pointed out in the answer, the security of goods in Dublin docks is a matter for the Port and Docks Board who maintain their own force of harbour police. I am sure the Deputy appreciates that pilferage in warehouses in docks is essentially the same as shoplifting. It is a matter which can really only be dealt with by employees of the firms watching the goods as best they can.