'Spiralling out of control': Businessman warns of 'epidemic' of shoplifting across Ireland

Business man Paul Gallagher, who owns 25 Skecher stores in Ireland, has moved to highlight what he says is a huge shoplifting problem facing the country.

CSO figures from the last 20 years indicate there has been an increase in shoplifting incidents of more than 300% in some locations around the country.

Paul Gallagher told Newstalk radio that Dublin seems to be the most affected city in the country, with 5,400 shoplifting incidents reported last year alone.

He says shoplifting is "spiralling out of control" in most cities and towns but "the worst area is Dublin 1."

"It's a daily experience," he told Newstalk. "there's a huge epidemic of shoplifting in Ireland. There's a certain lawlessness in city centres, they don't care...there's zero consequences."

Paul said that there are a lot of repeat offenders and young offenders who are shoplifting Irish stores.

“They get a slap on the wrist and they’re back out. You hear of people with 47 previous convictions - that’s just having a laugh,” he added.

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"They just simply don't care," Paul told Newstalk. "They grab three of four jackets worth a couple of hundred each and they just simply run out of the door...and if the gardaí come along and they do manage to apprehend them, they’re back out the next morning.” 

An Garda Síochána have issued some advice for retail stores, stating that there "are ongoing security concerns for retail and commercial premises. Direct losses arising from theft, or attacks on property and vandalism, can undermine or risk the viability of many businesses."

They have provided a long list of advice for retail owners, which can be found here, for example:

• The premises should remain well-illuminated after closing to ensure high visibility and increase the likelihood of intruders being noticed.
• Grilles or shutters should be considered to provide a solid barrier around the shell of the building to help prevent intruders gaining entry.
• Cash Tills, after trading hours, left open and empty - cash amounts held on the premises should be kept to the minimum in proper security cash safes.
• Access to the premises should be restricted during closing hours and all keys issued should be inspected on a regular basis.
• If there is a constant threat of burglary or vandalism at the premises, or in the vicinity, the use of a manned security patrol or in-house security may need to be considered.