Jim O'Keeffe
Question:70 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice whether she has satisfied herself with the system in operation for the collection of fines imposed by the courts; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Collection of Fines.
At present, when a fine is imposed, the courts normally allow a specified period (typically 14 days) for a payment and, in default of payment, may stipulate a term of imprisonment to be served by the defendant. Court staff send a notice to the defendant indicating the fine imposed and requesting payment within the stipulated period. A subsequent reminder notice may be issued in certain cases. In the event of failure to pay a warrant is made out in the court office and sent to the Garda. The Garda usually make a final effort to collect the fine and, in default, may execute the court warrant and arrest the defendant and lodge him/her in prison.
The Government is committed to revising the law relating to fines and to providing for their indexation. Changes in the procedure to allow for collection of fines by means of the attachment of earnings, whereby the courts could order that fines be deducted from a person's earnings, are under consideration in the context of a general review of fines.