THE Minister for Justice has condemned media coverage of recent crimes, describing it as a "form of opportunism".
There were two causes of fear in the community, Mrs Owen said, the level of the crime and the "hysterical reaction" that followed.
"It has been downright cruel to whip anxiety to the point that so many people are almost permanently on edge," Mrs Owen told a joint Chamber of Commerce Rotary Club meeting in Waterford last night.
In recent days, more thoughtful articles and interviews had replaced this "type of hype", she added.
"We have seen some horrific crimes committed by clearly depraved people over the last few weeks but panic or hysteria will not help those already hurt or prevent further crimes."
Part of the hysteria suggested there were hundreds of people unlawfully at large after being given temporary release from prison. That was simply not the case, said Mrs Owen.
Referring to the bail laws, the Minister said it was a matter of balance between the rights of society to protect itself and the rights of the accused. However, she believes they need to tip the balance against the criminal and she would be bringing proposals to government to change the bail laws within the next six weeks.
The Government had already taken measures to tackle crime. While she acknowledged they were necessary they were insufficient and she said it would be dangerously misleading to pretend they were otherwise.
"If we are really serious about bequeathing a better society to our children we must take steps now to make a community in which everyone can develop to their full potential," said Mrs Owen. Creating jobs was a vital element of this and the Minister said the Budget was aimed precisely at this area.