Crime prevention - Stations are a statement of our intent

The news that gun and drug crime rates have fallen dramatically is very welcome.

Despite the spectacular public impact some gangland murders have had, and the almost perverse interest they provoke, it is reassuring that there has been almost a 50% reduction in these crimes in some parts of the country. In one instance, in Dublin South Central, drug crime has fallen by 51%. These are win-win figures and must be celebrated because of the positive impact they have on communities, families, and individuals.

Curiously, these statistics fly in the face of received wisdom which suggests that crime rates climb during a recession. Though burglaries have increased by 8% — fraud and theft have increased too — it seems that so many of those who fuelled the drugs trade can no longer afford the habit. Basically, the market has dried up and the spoils are no longer worth the war.

The same reality has meant some reduction in serious crimes, the spur-of-the-moment crimes, especially sex offences, so often sparked by alcohol misuse. Alcohol sales have fallen and the commensurate fall in crime is welcome. This must pose serious questions for the drinks sector. There is a direct correlation, and no matter how cheering the responsible use of alcohol may be, the downside cannot be ignored.

Policing played a part too, and one of the warnings sounded by the Garda Representative Association before today’s opening of their annual conference speaks directly to the issue. The GRA warned that closing more rural Garda stations would reduce the force’s capacity to fight crime. Though very many rural stations are not operative 24/7, their very presence is a statement of intent, our line in the sand if you like. This is a live issue as Justice Minister Alan Shatter has announced a second wave of station closures. This follows the decision to close 39 last year. These may not have a significant daily footfall but they are more than important to host communities, as they are the most effective deterrent to the kind of criminal who preys on isolated homes in half-forgotten communities.

Garda management has a role to play too, as they must ensure that any flexibility in working arrangements that might keep them open is achieved. The Croke Park talks offer the perfect forum for delivering that change if it is needed.

As shown by recent events in rural Dublin, where a man believed to have nearly 100 previous convictions was shot, crime is as real in the countryside as it is in cities, and represents the same threat to its victims.