John Halligan (Waterford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Figures released this week in my constituency, Waterford, show that the number of home burglaries in January was up by over 30% on the figure for the same period last year. The rising statistic are on a par with figures throughout the country. In some areas the number of home burglaries has almost tripled in the past year. I suspect, given all the facts and figures, the real figure is a good deal higher.

I encounter victims of burglaries on a regular basis, all of whom paint a similar picture of the terrible pain and misery caused by this violation of private space. Often this horror is revisited when the perpetrator is brought to court and spared from a jail sentence. Often, items taken are never returned. They include personal jewellery and items close to people's hearts. I was in a house last week in which the mother and the father of the residents had died tragically some months before. Jewellery belonging to them was taken and more than likely will never be returned. I witnessed a husband and a wife crying in front of me. Many cry outwardly and many into their hearts. The psychological effects of having one's home violated cannot be underestimated and can last forever.

One point frequently under-reported concerns the cost of replacing items in a home and repairing the damage done by intruders. Many opt not to claim under insurance policies because of a fear premiums would go through the roof. Many others cannot afford to take out insurance policies. Research undertaken by Eircom PhoneWatch puts the average value of goods stolen in home burglaries at a staggering €1,868, a colossal expense.

I have one further comment to make before I come to my question. With many others, I believe the criminal justice system is failing the victims of burglaries. Today in every city and town, probably in every estate, someone's house will be burgled. Will the Tánaiste consider introducing legislation to force those found guilty of burglary, regardless of whether a community service or custodial sentence is handed down, to repay the cost of repairing the damage they have done? Under such legislation, every judge in every District Court would be instructed to ensure the perpetrator, regardless of means, would make reparations which could be deducted from his or her wages or social welfare payments.

I know the Tánaiste is aware of this matter; having spoken to other Members, I know they are aware of it also. It is a crime that has gone unnoticed compared to serious crimes against the person. It is destroying people's lives throughout the country. There is a fear among people that they are being abandoned and not taken notice of. Often, I have been in court when an out-of-touch judge, because of some do-gooder, says kind words about the perpetrator, while the victim is left abandoned. We need to do something about this problem urgently.

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