Murder rate could be worst ever

If the homicide rate of last month continues on the graph it already is on, then this year could have the worst murder and manslaughter rate since garda records began.

Last month eight murders were committed, which was one-third more than committed in January, 2002 - and last year was the worst ever since 1947 for murders and manslaughters which saw 62 perpetrated.

Despite this trend and the events in Limerick over the past week, and the crime level generally, the country is not experiencing a tide of violence, something which most people would not perceive to be the case.