Home burglary rates increase by 6% in the last 12 months

Recent Central Statistics Office (CSO) burglary findings have revealed a concerning rise in the number of burglaries in Ireland. Over the past 12 months (Q2 2023 – Q1 2024), home burglaries statistics have worryingly increased by 6% compared to the previous year (Q2 2022 – Q1 2023). Ireland crime rate increases with 9,806 burglaries highlighting the urgent need for all homeowners to take proactive steps to improve their home security, especially as we plan our summer holidays.

Burglaries statistics issued by the CSO, outlines that 19 of the 28 garda divisions have experienced an increase in burglaries in Ireland. Where in Ireland are burglaries most common? The combined Roscommon and Longford garda division endured the highest rate of increase in the country at 45% (235 burglaries), Cory City increased by 41% (351 burglaries) and Cork West by 40% (77 burglaries).

The report also outlined positive decreases in burglaries in Ireland within some divisions, as the Dublin Eastern Gardaí division cited the highest decrease in burglaries at -20% (348 burglaries), Kerry garda division at -13% (140 burglaries) and Kildare -12% (437 burglaries).

Eoin Dunne, PhoneWatch Managing Director advised; "The increase in burglaries statistics is a stark reminder of the importance of community awareness and homeowners to safeguard homes. Although, it's reassuring to note that since pre-Covid times burglary and related offences fell from 16,410 in 2020 to 8,927 in 2021 which coincided with Public Health Restrictions in place with Covid restrictions. As lockdown was lifted in 2022, the number of incidents rose to 9,257 and remained similar at 9,251 in 2023 before rising again to 9,806 incidents in the last 12 months. We would like to see this upward trend reversing within the next 12 months."

How to deter burglars in Ireland? PhoneWatch urges homeowners to secure their homes by implementing the following safety measures.

Watch our video with summer safety tips here.

Top 5 Home Security Tips

• Get a monitored alarm: This will keep you protected 24/7. PhoneWatch's system also monitors against smoke incidents. Arm it and check for updates via our app.
• Neighbour assistance: Ask neighbours to take in post and bins while you're away, so that it looks as if you are home.
• Maintain your garden: Keep your lawns cut and shrubs pruned, so it looks freshly done, especially if you're going on holidays.
• Lock windows and doors: Always lock up and never leave spare keys outside.
• Social media: If you're posting holiday pictures on social media, do so when you're back home.

For further crime statistic Ireland relating to the same period click here.