Since 2018, crime statistics based on data from An Garda Síochána have been published with the caveat due to concerns about the reliability of the force’s PULSE database system.

The CSO today announced the lifting of the reservation as part of its fifth review of the quality of recorded crime data.

Jim Dalton, statistician in the CSO’s crime and criminal justice section, said: “Over the past number of years, An Garda Síochána has worked to advance the assurance levels which can be provided around PULSE data with the CSO providing guidance on appropriate quality measures.

“Users can have confidence that the risks to data quality are known to AGS, and enhanced controls are now in place to help manage those risks.”

A new memorandum of understanding is to be signed between the CSO and An Garda Síochána to outline the quality management checking and reporting being done.

Welcoming the announcement, justice minister Helen McEntee said: “Today’s decision by the CSO is underpinned by significant investment in technology and data improvements in An Garda Síochána, and very significant progress by An Garda Síochána in connecting data, technology and Garda personnel in the delivery of information-led policing.

“I want to thank all members of An Garda Síochána for working hard to make these improvements and for adapting to new technologies and systems, which are all of significant value in helping us build stronger, safer communities.

“Crime statistics are of huge value to informing An Garda Síochána’s operational policy and policing approach in communities across the country. My Department also uses crime statistics to inform our policy making processes.”