Calls for heightened vigilance as 'concerning' rise in burglary rates recorded across Kilkenny

Home security and alarm companies have called for greater home security in Kilkenny, as recent CSO figures have highlighted an alarming rise in burglary rates across the county.

Over the past 12 months, burglaries have increased by 4 per cent in the combined Kilkenny and Carlow garda division compared to the previous year.

239 burglaries were reported across the division in the last 12 months, meaning ten more burlgaires were recorded from the previous year.

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PhoneWatch, an Irish alarm and home security system provider, have highlighted the issue, pointing out that during the summer period nationwide, burglaries increased by 6 per cent in the same period with 9,806 burglaries occurring.

The CSO data outlines that 19 of the 28 garda divisions across the country have experienced an increase in burglaries within the last year. The combined Roscommon and Longford garda division enduring the highest rate of increase in the country at 45 per cent (235 burglaries), while the Dublin Eastern garda division cited the highest decrease in burglaries at -20 per cent (348 burglaries).

Eoin Dunne, PhoneWatch Managing Director advised; “The increase in burglary incidents is a stark reminder of the importance of community awareness and individual action to safeguard homes and neighbourhoods. Although, it is 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 controls 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, so that the annual number of burglaries decreases, and we can be safer in our homes and know that are families are better protected.”

PhoneWatch has urged homeowners across Kilkenny to always be vigilant and secure their homes with the most stringent methods. The following home security safety tips will effectively reduce the risk of burglary within your home.

Some tips from PhoneWatch to protect your home include getting a working monitored alarm, asking for assistance from neighbours, locking windows and doors and only posting holiday pictures on social media after the holiday.