Urgent action needed now to address tool theft – Murphy

A new Bill to tackle tool theft will help provide reassurance and security for tradespeople, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

Speaking this morning at the launch of his Bill, which he is introducing to the Seanad this week, Senator PJ Murphy said an amendment must be made to the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offence) Act 2001 to introduce a mandatory minimum custodial sentence of three years for tool theft.

“The theft of trade tools is a major issue that causes distress to hard-working tradespeople up and down the country,” Senator Murphy explained.

“Many tradespeople across the country have felt a devastating blow when their ability to earn a living is impacted because the tools essential to their work have been stolen.

“In the last year we have heard about a wave of tool thefts across the country, with well over a dozen incidents reported in Galway, Clare, Limerick and across the rest of the country. This cannot be tolerated.

“I want to see real action taken on this. We need a specific law for the theft of trade tools and equipment from workers and small businesses.”

In his Bill Senator Murphy is looking for a minimum three-year sentence and to place limits on sentence suspension, so courts can’t overturn the intent of the law by issuing suspended sentences.

“It’s vital that electricians, plumbers, carpenters and other tradespeople feel there are strong protections in place. Tougher laws on tool theft would help deter thieves and provide greater security for workers.

“I’m glad to see the Bill receiving significant support from tradespeople across the country and my colleagues in Fine Gael.

“This is extremely important to the livelihoods of tradespeople who cannot afford to lose out on work because their equipment was stolen and I will be urging all my colleagues in the Seanad to support this Bill,” concluded Senator Murphy.