Almost three quarters of Irish pharmacies were victims of crime this year.

That's according to the Irish Pharmacy Union, who have called for more Garda protection for their businesses, and tougher sentences for those who break the law.

In 2012, 71% of pharmacies surveyed had experienced shoplifting or robbery, with one in four raids involving the use of a weapon.

Figures show that cosmetics and fake tan are the most likely targets for shoplifters.

IPU President Rory O'Donnell says he's surprised by the figures.