WHILE THE number of businesses targeted by criminals has fallen over the past year, crime is still costing firms €1.5 billion annually, according to a survey conducted for the Irish Small and Medium Enterprises Association (Isme).

The study reveals 35 per cent of businesses have been the target of criminal activity over the last 12 months, down from 45 per cent a year ago.

While the numbers of crimes committed in Ulster, Connaught and Munster declined, incidents rose by 4 per cent in Leinster. However, levels of crime against businesses in Dublin city fell by 24 per cent and by 15 per cent in Dublin county.

Isme estimates the direct cost of criminal activity on SMEs is approximately €440 million per annum or €5,305 per company. This figure rises to €1.02 billion when expenditure on crime-prevention methods such as CCTV cameras and alarms are included.

The survey shows the number of companies reporting crimes to the Garda doubled over the past year. Isme said this showed the Garda is gaining the confidence of the business community.

The survey indicates crime against retailers is a particular issue, with 44 per cent of firms in the sector reporting they had experienced some form of criminal activity during the last 12 months. This compares to 40 per cent for manufacturing companies, 39 per cent for construction firms and 29 per cent for both service and distribution companies.

As many as 60 per cent of organisations affected by crime during the year said they had experienced more than one instance.

The most common crime was theft by people from outside the company, which accounted for 38 per cent. However, crime committed by employees was also cited.

Isme found just 7 per cent of business owners were confident criminals would be apprehended.