Written Answers. - Crime Against Tourists.
Michael McDowell
Ceist:
91
Mr. M. McDowell
asked the
Minister for Tourism and Trade
his views on the damaging impact of crime on growth prospects in the tourism industry; and the measures, if any, that can be taken within the industry to deal with this problem.
[711/94]
Ivor Callely
Ceist:
360
Mr. Callely
asked the
Minister for Tourism and Trade
if there was a reduction in crime against tourists to date in 1994 compared to 1993; if the improved Garda situation and the liaison operation between gardaí, Bord Fáilte and other tourism interests including the "Take Care" leaflets have been of benefit; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[911/94]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 91 and 360 together.
The Minister for Justice has, of course primary responsibility for addressing crime, including crime against tourists. However, as Minister with responsibility for tourism, I continue to be concerned about this issue. While official statistics are not available, I understand from the Department of Justice that preliminary figures show that there has been a decrease in the number of crimes committed against tourists in 1994, compared to 1993. The main reason for this reduction in crime is effective policing on the streets.
The role of the tourism industry is also important in reducing the opportunities for criminals to thieve from our visitors. The level of liaison between the Garda, Bord Fáilte and the tourism industry is high, and all sectors of the industry are co-operating to distribute "Take Care" leaflets in four languages, and advise visitors on the steps which they should take to protect themselves and their property.
The introduction of The Dublin Tourist Victim Support Service earlier this year has also had a positive impact. The service provides emotional support and practical help with re-issuing of travel tickets, advising on money transfers, liaising with embassies, etc. The service deals only with cases referred to it by the gardaí and virtually all clients seen this year elected to continue their holiday in Ireland, and in many cases, promised to return.
The reduction in crime, particularly in the number of serious offences, has had a beneficial effect on the level of coverage by the international media. There have been very few such reports in the overseas media this year.
Finally, while there are grounds for concern about this problem, it is important that we keep a sense of proportion. The growth in crime against tourists is a worldwide phenomenon and Ireland rates very well in any international comparisons.
