Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 27 Apr 1994

Vol. 442 No. 1

Written Answers. - Crime Statistics.

Ivor Callely

Question:

74 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Justice if there has been a noticeable change in crime involving the unauthorised taking of motor vehicles; her views on whether statistics should be kept as to the use of stolen vehicles such as for bank raids, joyriding, spare parts and other such purposes; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Justice (Mrs. Geoghegan-Quinn)

I am informed by the Garda Authorities that the information sought by the Deputy which is set out in the following tabular statement, is readily available in respect of the period 1989-92. Figures for 1993 are not yet available.

	No. of Vehicles the subject of Unauthorised taking (all of these were recovered)	No. of Vehicles the subject of larceny (Not recovered)
1989	9,923	1,350
1990	10,521	1,661
1991	9,783	1,787
1992	10,573	1,499

Although the combined figures for recorded larceny and unauthorised taking of motor vehicles in 1992 shows an increase on the 1991 figure, the 1992 figure represents a decrease of over 47 per cent on the level recorded in 1981.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that information is not available on the subsequent use made of these vehicles. The compilation of crime statistics is a matter for the Garda authorities, who have informed me that the manner in which these statistics are compiled is kept under constant review and any alterations or improvements which are deemed appropriate and necessary are implemented.