Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 21 Nov 1996

Vol. 471 No. 8

Written Answers. - Crime Prevention Measures.

Ivor Callely

Question:

19 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Justice if her attention has been drawn to the cost of security to business houses; if so, her understanding of the likely costs to business houses of such security arrangements; the role of the Garda Síochána in the prevention and detection of crime in respect of such business houses; if she has satisfied herself that adequate resources are available to protect business houses and related matters; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21718/96]

Minister for Justice (Mrs. Owen)

I have no information regarding the cost of security to business premises. As the Deputy will appreciate, this is a matter primarily for the businesses themselves.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that crime prevention officers — who are based in each Garda Division — provide advice on all aspects of security to all business houses. Security surveys are conducted by crime prevention officers on request and basic crime prevention advice is disseminated to all businesses as a matter of course.

The National Crime Prevention Office, based at Garda Headquarters, is engaged in research and development of crime prevention measures.

Numerous brochures and literature are available to cater for the needs of various business interests. Presentations on business house security, computer crime and security of goods in transit are made by crime prevention personnel.

Business watch, a crime prevention scheme on the lines of neighbourhood watch, was introduced in February 1994 as a means of ensuring that an effective and efficient policing service is provided to members of the business community. To date, 85 business watch schemes have been established and they make an important contribution to the partnership between the business community and local gardaí.