Thief Banned From NI Shops

L'Derry District Judge Barney McElholm has banned a 24-year-old shoplifter from entering any shop or shopping centre in Northern Ireland, according to the Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association (NIIRTA).

NIIRTA has responded by calling for "a new crackdown on shoplifting" and has requested a meeting with new Chief Constable George Hamilton to discuss the wider concerns held by the Association.

NIIRTA Chief Executive Glyn Roberts said: "While we cannot comment on the decision of District Judge Barney McElholm for legal reasons, the case does highlight a wider concern among retailers that more needs to be done to tackle this problem of shoplifting.

"Shoplifting is not a victimless crime and results in the loss of millions to the retail sector across the UK, putting pressure on small independent retailers whose margins are frequently tight.

"While we support the Fixed Penalty Notices to ensure speedier sanctions against shoplifters, it has been in operation for two years and needs to be reviewed. Our view is that the Fixed Penalty Notice of £80 needs to doubled and those who are prosecuted for serial shoplifting need to face stiffer sentences."

(IT/JP)