Sex crimes have dropped by 12% this year, latest Central Statistics Office figures have revealed.
Robbery, burglary and theft also decreased significantly due to Covid-19 restrictions.
Justice Minister Helen McEntee welcomed the figures and encouraged people to report offences, particularly sex crimes.
She said: “An Garda Siochana have played a vital role in supporting communities throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Of course, crime has not stopped and criminals continue to look for opportunities to exploit.
“In addition to supporting the public health regulations, gardai have shown their determination to continue to prevent and detect crime with significant seizures and arrests for drugs, organised crime, burglaries and drug and drink driving.
“I commend the quick and proactive approach of An Garda Siochana, including public awareness initiatives and operations, particularly in relation to domestic violence under Operation Faoiseamh. Preventing and addressing sexual crime remains a key priority. I strongly urge all victims to come forward and report these horrific crimes.
“The rollout of the Divisional Protective Services Units within An Garda Siochana is now complete nationwide with DPSUs in every Garda division across the country.
“This means that there are now specially trained officers available nationwide who are responsible for engagement with and interviewing vulnerable victims.
“This will ensure that when vulnerable victims of crimes such as domestic abuse and sexual violence present to gardai, they are met with a consistently high standard of specialist professional and expert assistance.”
Burglary and related offences saw a 20% decrease over the 12 months to the end of September – and by 31% compared to quarter three last year. Theft and related offences were down by 18% in the year to the end of September and by 19% on quarter three in 2019.
Robbery, extortion and hijacking also dropped by 12% compared to the previous 12-month period – and by 17% on quarter three last year.
