With the recent decision of a District Judge banning a 24-year-old shoplifter from entering any shop or shopping centre in Northern Ireland, the Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association (NIIRTA) has called for a new crackdown on shoplifting.
NIIRTA has requested a meeting with the new Chief Constable to discuss the wider concerns about crime against its members.
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Glynn Roberts, NIIRTA Chief Executive, is calling for a crackdown on crime against businesses.[/caption]
Glyn Roberts, NIIRTA Chief Executive, said: “While we cannot comment on the decision of District Judge Barney McElholm for legal reasons, the case does highlight a wider concern among retailers that more needs to be done to tackle this problem of shoplifting.
“Shoplifting is not a victimless crime and results in the loss of £millions to the retail sector across the UK, putting pressure on small independent retailers whose margins are frequently tight”
“While we support the Fixed Penalty Notices to ensure speedier sanctions against shoplifters, it has been in operation for two years and needs to be reviewed. Our view is that the Fixed Penalty Notice of £80 needs to doubled and those who are prosecuted for serial shoplifting need to face stiffer sentences”
“NIIRTA is also concerned that the general issue of Business Crime has lost focus and we need a renewed efforts from PSNI, DOJ, Policing Board and Business Groups to put in place a new effective strategy”
“We have requested meetings with the new Chief Constable, Justice Minister and Chair of the Policing Board to move this issue forward.”
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