The latest statistics on recorded crime show an increase in the number of homicides - driven by a 33% increase in murder.
But the numbers for several crime groups fell - including public order offences, sexual crimes and damage to property.
The figures have been welcomed by the Interim Garda Commissioner Noirin O'Sullivan.
However the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre says their figures for sexual crimes are up on last year - indicating that some crimes are not being reported.
Bernie Jameson reports.
