Vol. 546 No. 5
55 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the report Crime in Ireland, commissioned by the National Crime Council; if he intends to implement the recommendations of the report in regard to improved methods of compiling crime statistics; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32082/01]
I was very pleased to welcome the publication of the National Crime Council's first report, Crime in Ireland, on the 14 November this year. As the House will be aware, I established the National Crime Council to focus on crime prevention and crime awareness, and the publication of Crime in Ireland is tangible proof that these issues are being taken forward in a progressive manner. Despite the encouraging downward trend in crime in recent years, there is still a need for analysis and discussion as a further contribution to informed policy making. By focusing not only on crime trends but also on our sources of data on crime, the National Crime Council's report will help bring about a deeper public understanding of the issues involved. The Crime in Ireland report makes a number of recommendations relating to the further development of capacities with regard to crime research and statistics. I will give full and early consideration to these recommendations, in conjunction with relevant State agencies, including the Garda Síochána.
