MEP calls for incentives to join force and more powers to seize assets and restrict criminal gangs

Together with Magnus Brunner, European Commissioner for Home Affairs, we brought together representatives of national police forces, Europol, and other stakeholders.

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Their conclusions were clear: strengthening cross-border cooperation in the fight against crime within the EU is fundamental. This objective is all the more urgent as challenges continue to grow.

Indeed, according to Eurostat, property crimes across the EU increased in 2023: thefts by almost 5%, burglaries by over 4% and robberies by nearly 3% compared to the previous year. The number of homicides also rose by 1.5% in 2023. We know these figures are not abstract. Irish communities, just like others across Europe, feel the impact of organised crime, drugs gangs, and violence on our streets.

So, what can be done? First, we must take the time to listen to and engage with gardai and their European counterparts. Just as business leaders guide debates on competitiveness or innovation, no one understands crime better than those who confront it every day.