Garda advice for retailers and shoppers in an effort to keep robberies to a minimum at Christmas.
One of the key measures undertaken to deter crime in the busy shopping period is an increased Garda presence on the streets.
So far in 1979, approximately £1.5 million has been stolen in over 200 armed robberies. Retailers are being asked to introduce measures to stay safe in the run up to Christmas. Garda Sgt Ciaran McCready, Crime Prevention Unit, encourages retailers to avoid building up sizeable amounts of cash on their premises.
We advise that he should consider moving his cash off before the banks have closed.
According to statistics from the Central Bank, there is now £119 million more cash in circulation in the economy than at the same time last year.
Gardaí want as little of it as possible to get into the wrong hands.
Crowds on the streets are easy pickings and female shoppers are the most popular targets for thieves. Gardaí are warning women in particular to be alert. Garda Ciaran McCreedy encourages people to avoid carrying large amounts of cash. If at all possible, they should use chequebooks, credit cards or bank cards. He also discourages people from displaying large amounts of cash and to keep their handbags close to them at all times.
Don't flash the roll as the Americans say.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 18 December 1979. The reporter is Tom McCaughren.
