Retail crime took centre stage at a high-level Retail Forum hosted by Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan and Minister of State for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Alan Dillon, held at the Department of Justice in Dublin. The forum brought together retailers, law enforcement, and policymakers to share insights and propose solutions as part of the Government’s push to develop a new Retail Crime Strategy, a key priority in the Programme for Government 2025.
Retailers provided first-hand accounts of the increasing threat posed by theft and anti-social behaviour to businesses, staff safety, and the wider community. Their input will directly inform the design of a coordinated national response aimed at curbing criminal activity in retail spaces.
Minister O’Callaghan underscored the urgency of the issue, stating:
“Retail theft is not a victimless crime… We are determined to tackle retail crime with a coordinated approach in order to deliver effective measures,” as quoted in the Department of Justice press release.
He also pointed to additional policy levers, including plans to update the Public Order Acts to restrict access to premises by repeat offenders and the rollout of Local Community Safety Partnerships across all local authorities to support long-term crime prevention.
Minister Dillon added:
“Retail crime poses a significant threat to our local businesses and communities… Together, we can ensure that our retail spaces remain secure and vibrant hubs of community life,” according to the official release.
Gardaí Crack Down on Organised Retail Crime
An Garda Síochána provided an update on Operation Táirge, its nationwide crackdown on organised retail crime. Launched in December 2023, the operation has resulted in 8,460 arrests and over 20,000 charges or summons by November 2024. High-value goods and vehicles have also been recovered, reflecting the operation’s success in dismantling organised theft networks.
Ongoing Collaboration with the Retail Sector
The Retail Forum, which meets quarterly under the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, plays a pivotal role in shaping policy through direct engagement with industry stakeholders. An Garda Síochána regularly contributes crime updates at these sessions, ensuring law enforcement and government remain closely aligned with sector needs.
This renewed focus on retail crime comes amid growing calls from business owners and trade groups for stronger deterrents and visible policing in commercial areas.
For more information on the Government’s crime prevention efforts or the Retail Crime Strategy under development, visit justice.ie.
Minister of State for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Alan Dillon
