Crime statistics published - Accurate data is essential

IF crime statistics are not accurate and up to date, then it seems all but impossible to manage policing resources properly.

If crime statistics are not reliable and contemporary, then it seems reasonable to argue that a police force is not in a position to deliver optimal performance to the communities that depend on it. Neither is it in a position to argue as strongly as it might for extra resources.

Late last year, the CSO delayed the publication of quarterly crime data because it was unhappy with the “statistical implications” of a Garda Inspectorate report. It seemed as if our old friend — self regulation — was to undermine credibility in our public affairs one more time.