The surge in burglaries in the Northern Garda Region this year emphasises the need to protect community garda resources, according to Fianna Fáil TD Charlie McConalogue.
According to the latest CSO crime statistics, there was an 18.3% increase in burglaries in the Northern Region in the year to the end of June. The Northern region includes Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Cavan, Monaghan and Louth.
Deputy McConalogue has expressed serious concern at the increase and says now is not the time for the Justice Minister Alan Shatter to close and downgrade garda stations in the border region.
“There were 2,565 burglaries in this region to the end of June. That’s 2,565 ordinary families and individuals in this area who had their homes or business targeted by criminals,” explained Deputy McConalogue.
“It is further evidence of the fact that ordinary people in communities across Donegal are being victimised by criminals every day.
“These figures further highlight the absurdity of Minister Shatter’s policy of closing and downgrading garda stations across the country. The Minister has already shut down 39 garda stations this year and downgraded dozens more.
“People in isolated communities across Co Donegal, and older people in particular, are feeling increasingly vulnerable in their homes. They need the safety and reassurance of a visible garda presence in their area,” he said.
He added that he commend the work of the gardaí involved in Operation Fiacla, targeting criminal gangs involved in burglary.
“They must be given every support necessary to protect homes and businesses across the North West. I am also urging Minister Shatter to pull back from his dangerous policy of reducing the visible garda presence in our communities.”
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