Gardai warn of crime rate spiral in Limerick

Garda sergeants and inspectors in Limerick have said the crime rate in the city is spiralling out of control. The number of serious or "headline" offences rose by 22 per cent in 2001 and are expected to have climbed even higher in 2002 when figures are published.

In an unprecedented move last night, the Limerick branch of the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (AGSI) released a statement calling for a dramatic increase in Garda resources to deal with the city's criminals. They are most concerned at the rising number of murders and other homicides.

During an AGSI meeting in Limerick at the weekend, many members spoke of the severe stress they endure in their efforts to maintain a police service with massively depleted numbers.

AGSI general secretary Mr George Maybury said: "Many members at the meeting complained that the crime scene in Limerick is now in danger of getting out of control," he said. "It is clear that criminals in this city are aware of the Garda staff shortages and are taking full advantage."

The AGSI said the re-deployment of officers from frontline duty to other work, coupled with what seems to be a significant increase in crime, was beginning to have devastating consequences.

Staff shortages have been a problem for more than two years, but in recent months the problem has become particularly acute because of increased crime, the AGSI said. The sergeants and inspectors say they no longer have the manpower to deal with the incidents they face on a daily basis.

Headline offences - including homicides, robberies and sexual offences - increased by 22 per cent in 2001, up to 3,564 incidents in that year from 2,779 in 2000.

Limerick had the highest number of homicides of any of the State's Garda divisions in 2001. There were 18 homicides in the Limerick Division in 2001, compared to eight in both the Dublin North Central and Dublin North Divisions.