Victims of crime must have their voices heard in courts and should be entitled to compensation, Labour's national conference heard today.
Justice spokesman Brendan Howlin referred to a recent EU survey that claimed Ireland was one of Europe's hotspots for crime with high levels of sexual crimes and robberies.
The Wexford TD told delegates at his party's event in Dublin's Helix venue: "Victims must be heard in the prosecution process and in the courts. More than that, they must be compensated for their suffering. Where possible the perpetrator must be required to make financial restitution."
Mr Howlin also called for the defunct Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme to be restored.
"Workable schemes operate in England, Scotland and Wales. There is no moral reason why victims should be excluded here," he added.
The Labour conference is the first of the pre-General Election season and is themed: 'Ireland can do better with Labour.'
Party leader Pat Rabbitte is expected to use this evening's televised keynote address to focus on specific areas of policy that the party can change.
Labour is currently pegged at 11-12% in opinion polls but the party was buoyed by last week's data showing that the alternative coalition with Fine Gael was close to toppling the Government.
In his five Commitments for Change, Mr Rabbitte has called for pre-school education for children, more gardai, abolition of the means test for carers, will help first-time workers to buy homes and will provide more clean hospital beds.
Former leader Ruairi Quinn also denied suggestions that Labour could not be trusted on the economy. He said his party's last period in government, growth was higher and inflation was lower than under the current Coalition.
Mr Howlin said: "People want their neighbourhoods back. They want to be able to walk the streets of this country without fear of assault or intimidation.
Parents want to know that their young sons and daughters will arrive home at night safe and well. In short, and above all else, they want a visible Garda presence in their community. And that is Labour's pledge."