Malcolm Byrne (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I wish to raise the question of retail crime, which ISME reckons costs this country more than €1.62 billion per year. This has been a concern for retailers all over the country. Even in terms of Garda statistics, however, the Garda estimated that in the year to the end of March, 6,772 theft from shop incidents were reported to it, which was up from 6,228 in the previous year. In addition to that, there were 49 assault incidents, 54 public order incidents and 19 criminal damage incidents. Indeed, RGDATA estimates that 97% of retail outlets in this country have experienced shoplifting. We know there is a problem with organised retail theft in some parts of the country but it is now reaching epidemic proportions. Even though members of the Garda are trying their best, I believe it is critical that the Minister for Justice comes in and has a debate with us on those issues.As the Leader might recall, Senator Casey and I brought forward a Bill specifically to protect retail workers, because retail workers are often subjected to foul-mouthed abuse when they tackle some of those involved in shoplifting. Some of it is often racist, sexist and homophobic. This issue is very serious. It is a major cost for retailers in this country. It has been highlighted by ISME, RGDATA and the Convenience Stores and Newsagents Association. We need to have a response.