A Fine Gael Senator is set to introduce new legislation aimed at tackling the theft of tools and equipment from tradespeople and small businesses.

Galway Senator PJ Murphy plans to amend the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act 2001 to create a mandatory minimum custodial sentence for serious theft-related crimes involving work equipment, where the theft directly prevents a person from earning a living.

Murphy said a minimum sentence of three years' imprisonment is required to deter criminals who target tradespeople, many of whom are self-employed and face significant financial loss and disruption when tools or machinery are stolen.

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The Senator confirmed that he intends to bring the legislation before the Oireachtas when it returns later this month. The proposed bill has already attracted support from electricians, plumbers, carpenters, other trades workers, small businesses and Fine Gael colleagues.

"I've been consulting with diligent hard-working tradesmen and women who are fully supportive of this measure. They have relayed the loss of income and disruption to their employment and service to customers when thieves target their livelihood

"Tradespeople live and work in every community in this country and provide great services at all times to those who need it. They deserve as much support as possible," he said.

Under the proposals, any adult convicted of theft, burglary, aggravated burglary, robbery or handling stolen work equipment would be subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of three years. The bill would also restrict courts from suspending more than 18 months of the sentence.