Survey: More than 40% of firms hit by crime

More than 40% of businesses were victims of crime in the past year, according to new research conducted by Netwatch, the Carlow-based protection company.

The multi-sector survey showed that opportunistic 'breaking and entering' yielded substantial rewards for thieves in Ireland last year with over 50% of those surveyed reporting lost property valued up to €5,000 and 25% of respondents being hit to the tune of €10,000 - €20,000.

And as thieves become ever more desperate, burglar alarms and static CTTV systems are no deterrent to determined criminals.

More than 63% of our respondents had burglar alarms installed and 60% had CCTV cameras in place, however they are still being targeted on a regular basis,

David Walsh, Managing Director of Netwatch said: "In a worrying indictment of our society at present, almost 65 percent of respondents believe that their business is at even greater risk of crime in the current economic environment. Higher unemployment, lower rates of pay, less disposable income, financial pressures and sheer desperation are some of the reasons that respondents gave for this perceived threat.

"The theft of cash, machinery and fuel has emerged as particularly prevalent activity in recent months.

"79% believe we will see a general increase in crime in 2010 and not one person questioned believed that crime would decrease this year."

The Netwatch survey of business owners and company directors supports the data published recently by the Central Statistics Office, which indicated that the number of burglaries has risen significantly in recent months.