Fewer crimes against tourists

CRIMES AGAINST tourists fell last year, according to the latest figures from the Irish Tourist Assistance Service (Itas).

Last year the service received 354 reports of tourist crime and traumatic incidents. This compared with 380 incidents in 2008.

Some 639 tourists were affected by last year’s incidents. Half of all these crimes involved theft from a person, followed by theft from cars (just under 10 per cent) and burglaries (almost 4 per cent).

Dublin Garda stations accounted for 69 per cent of cases reported, followed by stations in Kerry, Limerick and Louth.

Nine cases of violent crimes against tourists were reported last year, compared with 10 in 2008.

Most crimes happened when tourists were sightseeing, shopping or relaxing in restaurants and cafes.

Tourists were more likely to be victims of crime between 2pm to 6pm, and to be a female aged between 17 and 24.

A helpline for tourists who are victims of crime while visiting Ireland has been set up. The Freephone number is 1890-365700