THE level of crime against tourists in Ireland is low by international standards, the House was told.

The Minister for Tourism and Trade, Mr Kenny, said Department of Justice figures showed 3,120 crimes in 1994 - 0.08 per cent of tourist numbers. A survey by the consumer magazine Which? last year showed Ireland had the fourth lowest theft rate of 44 countries surveyed.

"There is of course no acceptable level of crime," said the Minister, "and it is essential that tourists who fall victim receive as much support as possible." This was provided through the Tourist Victim Support Service, set up in 1994, and operated from Department of Justice premises in Dublin.

Bord Failte provided £10,000 this year towards the service which provided emotional and practical support, such as assistance in replacing passports, travel documents and travellers cheques to victims.