New strategy needed to fight retail crime – Ward

Fines based on the value of theft or damage should be levied on those who commit retail crime, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Recent figures from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) show a sharp increase in shop thefts over the last decade. Across the first three months of 2025 alone, 8,000 incidents of theft were reported.

“When it comes to retail crime, we need to be tougher because we are simply not catching enough people. I have been engaging with those directly affected by the ongoing uptick in theft, intimidation, and violence to see what is needed to address this.

“Part of the threat of retail crime lies with its knock-on effect on staff and their working conditions and subsequently, the economy. If staff aren’t protected, the shopping experience worsens, and customers will no longer shop there.

“If somebody steals something in your shop, not only should the cost of the stolen item be returned, but an additional fine is issued. The Fines Act 2010 allows any court to impose a fine and deduct it from income – whether that is based on salary or social welfare.

“We need to get tough on this, it’s not about throwing more people in jail because we know that isn’t working and won’t work. But we need to get serious about invoking a retail crime strategy that acts as a solid deterrent to all offenders.

“Our shopping areas form crucial part of our local communities, and we must ensure that staff, shop owners and customers can go about their day in a secure environment. It is imperative that we make progress on this issue” concluded Deputy Ward.