Business leaders seek ‘rent-a-cop’ scheme

BUSINESS leaders yesterday called for the introduction of a rent-a-cop scheme, signalling retailers are prepared to pay for extra garda patrols in shopping centres and on busy main streets.

The Chambers of Commerce of Ireland (CCI) said retailers would pay a premium to allow already stretched garda resources to be directed to protecting their businesses.

In a submission on the 2006 garda policing plan, the CCI called on Justice Minister Michael McDowell to “allow businesses to pay for increased garda presence where and when they feel it is needed”.

The CCI also cited examples in the US where off-duty police are available for hire by businesses. They are recruited through stations, work in uniform and, in some areas, are granted limited police powers. It is argued that police in uniform “provide a significant deterrent to anti-social and criminal behaviour”.

Under the garda finance code, duties such as policing of major sports and music events can be paid for by the organisers.

“The CCI would like to see this service extended to businesses willing to pay the full premium. So, for example, if the traders on Dublin’s Henry Street want extra gardaí patrolling the street in the run up to Christmas, this service can be provided and will be paid for by the traders.”

Garda Commissioner Noel Conroy has already floated his own idea of public-private partnership. He believes businesses, particularly pubs and clubs, should pay for the existing resources being ploughed into tackling public order problems on the street, particularly late at night.

Labour’s justice spokesman Joe Costello said there was merit in the idea of businesses paying for garda overtime, but not at the expense of the policing and security needs of ordinary people.

The submission, drawn up by the CCI’s retail crime council, also recommends a review of time served by garda superintendents, claiming there is a “constant flow of new superintendents” which contributes to “retail crime across Ireland”.