THERE has been a significant decrease in the number of reported crime incidents in the city and county this year, though fatalities on Limerick’s roads have seen a notable increase.
Speaking at the Joint Policing Committee in County Hall, Chief Superintendent, Gerry Mahon, stated that there had been two homicides in Limerick this year, compared to four last year, while discharges of firearms were down 26 per cent on 2008 figures.
Drink driving incidents were also down, though Chief Supt Mahon pointed out that this was in line with the decreased traffic volumes on the roads.
The number of fatal crashes increased significantly, from 17 in 2008, to 21 this year, however, serious injuries on the roads were down from 26 to 17.
There has been an increase in house burglaries so far this year, with incidents up 10 per cent. General theft is up 1 per cent on 2008 figures.
Referring to public order offences, Chief Supt. Mahon said: “There are a number of public order hot spots in urban areas and we have targeted these with resources. A lot of the situations that arise are a result of a lack of education”.
Speaking about the crime statistics revealed by Mahon, Deputy Michael Noonan TD, said: “Its great to hear that crime is down across Limerick, but upsetting that fatalities on the roads have increased”.
Reports of an increase in anti-social behaviour in various areas of the county were submitted by representatives to Gardaí.
Croom councillor Pat C Fitzgerald, and Askeaton’s Councillor Kevin Sheahan, had both previously made requests for further Garda resources for their respective areas, to combat disruptive behaviour.
They were informed that no additional Gardaí could be provided, as was councillor Leo Walsh, who queried whether the retiring Garda Sergeant in Ballyneety would be replaced.
