Judges ‘not viewing burglary as a serious offence’

A senior Department of Justice official has said judges “don’t view burglary as a serious offence”, despite high-profile cases showing rural Ireland is facing an escalating burglary crime wave.
Judges ‘not viewing burglary as a serious offence’

Department of Justice assistant secretary general Jimmy Martin said officials have a perception that courts are failing to take the matter as seriously as they should, potentially sparking a divisive row between the State and the judiciary.

Speaking at the latest Dáil’s public accounts committee meeting, the senior civil servant said despite recent coalition measures to tackle a spate of burglaries there is a belief within Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald’s department the issue is not being treated as seriously as required.

Already a subscriber? Sign in

You have reached your article limit.

Unlimited access. Half the price.

Annual €130 €65

Best value

Monthly €12€6 / month

More in this section

Lunchtime News

Newsletter

Keep up with stories of the day with our lunchtime news wrap and important breaking news alerts.

Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited