Tourists will be given safety tips
Visitors to Ireland are to be given advice on how to avoid becoming victims of crime during their trip.
A new guide was launched by the gardaí and tourism chiefs after research found only a tenth of visitors received safety information on their arrival in Ireland.
The book gives tips on looking after personal belongings, how to look confident on the street and also advises on car safety.
Tourism Minister John O’Donoghue said that although Ireland was a safe holiday spot, tourists could never be too careful.
He said: “Ireland is one of the safest destinations for tourists but we cannot ignore the fact that crimes against overseas visitors do occur.
“However, many of the crimes experienced by tourists could be avoided and this guide is a gentle reminder to tourists to stay safe and to protect their property.”
The Tourist Victim Support Service produced the booklet after finding that only 11% of travellers received safety information when they arrived in Ireland.
Around two-thirds thought that safety and security information should be made available.
As a result, the pocket-sized guide was produced in English, French, Italian and Spanish and will be distributed to holidaymakers when they arrive.
Some of the tips it gives are to keep cash in a money belt or in a safe at the hotel, not to wear expensive jewellery and to avoid deserted streets.
It also gives advice on car safety and the rules of the road.
