Crime statistics - CSO sceptical

It is incredible and a little too Banana Republic that the State’s statisticians feel the need to attach a health warning to new crime figures because they are uncertain of the nature of the data supplied to them by An Garda Síochána yet that is the case.

That this issue is ongoing just adds to the air of incomprehension clouding so much of Irish policing.

Nevertheless, the CSO findings are concerning. They show an 11.7% increase in sexual offences, a 17.4% increase in rape, and a 10.8% rise in non-aggravated sexual assaults.

Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan reflected the spirit of the age and the position of the majority of people on this island when he “strongly encouraged anyone who has been the victim of such attacks to please contact An Garda Síochána and report the incident as soon as possible... Gardaí will be on hand to support all those who come forward where they will be treated at all times in a professional and sensitive manner.”

That is just as it should be but it would be far more reassuring if the CSO could express confidence in the figures offered by that organisation.