Major Drop In Crime Levels For Celbridge Since 2017

The analysis by the Irish Independent shows that 40% of garda stations nationwide recorded more criminal offences in 2021 than in 2019

Celbridge has recorded year-on-year decreases in crime levels since 2017, a drop of 40% was recorded during that time.

According to the Irish Independent, Blessington also recorded a drop of 42% during the same period.

However, the trend is not confined to smaller towns and villages as the country’s two busiest garda stations , Pearse Street and Store Street in Dublin city centre, have seen crime levels drop by 40% and 27% respectively over the same period.

In Rathcoole, theft accounted for almost half of all crimes reported in the station during 2021, as was the case in Donnybrook, Santry, Rathmines and Lusk stations.

The analysis shows theft  was the most common crime in the country, accounting for one in four of all recorded offences, and was the predominant problem in over a third of all garda stations last year.

The analysis by the Irish Independent of a detailed breakdown of crime figures reveals that 40% of garda stations nationwide recorded more criminal offences in 2021 than in 2019.

While the overall number of drug offences fell by 14% last year, such crimes were the main offence in 37 stations including the neighbouring towns of Carrigtwohill and Cobh in Co Cork as well as Ronanstown in west Dublin and Dungarvan, Co Waterford.

Sinn Féin TD for Kildare South Patricia Ryan commented: "Figures published today show that the number of crimes reported to the majority of Garda Stations in county Kildare have decreased, which is welcome news, but I am also concerned that the numbers in Carbury, Kildare Town and Castledermot have increased.

"Kildare Town have increased to 527 - up from 511 in 2017. While Castledermot reported crimes have increased to 127 from 95.

“Councillor Noel Connolly and I have been working closely with residents in Carbury and Kildare Town who are concerned about drug dealing and use in their towns and the associated rise in crime that follows.

"Kildare and Meath have the lowest Garda numbers per capita," she said

"This is very concerning and must prompt robust action from government," she insisted.

"It is clear that much more must be done to ensure that all local communities are protected from crime. It is vital that everyone here in Kildare can feel safe and know that they are protected," she added.