asked the Minister for Justice if his attention has been drawn to the increase in the crime rate in recent times as referred to in the Garda Commissioner's report; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
129.
Ceisteanna—Questions Oral Answers. - Crime Rate.
128.
asked the Minister for Justice if, in view of the serious increase in this country's crime rate in recent years, he will introduce immediately a 24 hour service in all Garda stations and an intensive recruitment drive to increase the strength of the Garda force.
130.
asked the Minister for Justice if he will make a statement regarding the recently published report of the Garda Commissioner which indicates that there has been an overall increase of 23 per cent in the number of crimes recorded for the year 1971 compared to 1970 and that the number of indictable offences recorded during the year 1971 was the highest since the foundation of the State.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 128 to 130, inclusive, together.
At the outset might I emphasise that the increase in the crime rate which has been the subject of comment recently relates to the year ended 30th September, 1971. I am glad to be able to say that provisional returns for the year ended 30th September, 1972 indicate that, while a further increase in the total number of crimes occurred in that year, the rate of increase has abated considerably.
In his foreword to his report on crime for the year ended 30th September, 1971, the Commissioner set out some of the factors which contributed to the increase in crime and also some of the measures that are being taken to deal with the situation. In addition to those measures, a total net increase of 1,120 in the strength of the Garda Síochána over the two years 1971-72 and 1972-73 has been authorised. This figure of 1,120 is over and above recruitment to replace normal wastage. To date, 850 of these additional gardaí have been recruited. A further 50 are being appointed this month and the remainder shortly afterwards. Substantial additional Garda transport has also been provided. The Garda radio system has been extended and is now giving coverage in almost all areas.
The present opening hours of Garda stations have been fixed to enable the station parties to carry out the maximum amount of the more important outdoor police duties, while providing an adequate office service. The Commissioner is satisfied that the present arrangements make for a better service to the public than the suggested staffing of all Garda stations on a 24 hour basis.
While it is heartening to hear that the figures up to September, 1972, show a lessening in the rate of increase, can the Minister tell us whether the rate of detection has improved similarly?
I have no information on the rate of detection but there has been a very marked drop in the rate of increase in crime.