Gardai 'deeply frustrated' as suspects in 1,750 crimes in Limerick in 2024 were on bail

THE FACT that suspects in 1,750 crimes in Limerick were on bail at the time is “shocking but not surprising” said Deputy Maurice Quinlivan.

The combined figure for the past three years of suspects implicated in crime in Limerick while on bail amounted to 5,299, he revealed. 

“These are incredible figures,” said the Sinn Fein TD, who spoke of local gardai's deep frustration.

Mr Quinlivan (pictured below) said the figures released to Sinn Féin Justice spokesperson Matt Carthy show that suspects for 40,348 crimes carried out across the State in 2024 were on bail release. 

“This was an increase of almost 5,000 since 2022. The combined figure for the past three years of suspects implicated in crime while on bail amounted to 114,655.

"These figures show that bail laws need to be examined to ensure that they are being appropriately applied where there is a risk of someone committing further crimes while on bail,” said Mr Quinlivan.

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 It is clear there has been a considerable rise in the number of crimes being committed by those on bail, he said.

“While many of these crimes would be considered relatively minor, some have been very serious, including those which have resulted in the loss of life. 

“I have spoken to many local gardai who are deeply frustrated that many people in Limerick on bail continue to commit crimes often making a nonsense of their police work.

“We need to get this right. The public will not tolerate a situation where dangerous criminals are repeatedly released on bail to commit further crimes. The Government must address this issue as a matter of urgency. If the bail laws are not working, as these figures suggest, then the government must act.”