Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 25 Jun 1998

Vol. 493 No. 2

Written Answers. - Sentencing Policy.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

53 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the proposals, if any, for alternatives to custodial sentences, particularly in regard to non-payment of fines and civil debt; when the necessary legislation will be introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15409/98]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue)

The Government's legislative programme includes an attachment of earnings Bill which is intended to provide an alternative to imprisonment in the case of non-payment of debts or fines. Work on the Bill is proceeding and in that context detailed research is being undertaken at the moment in my Department analysing the details of committals to prison in respect of non-payment of fines and debts. That research is well advanced and I believe that it will prove particularly helpful in devising appropriate proposals for inclusion in the legislation.

In relation to the question of alternatives to custody generally, I have set up an expert group to review the Probation and Welfare Service, the body responsible for the operation of supervised alternatives to custody. The group's terms of reference require it to look at the role of the service and in this context it would be open to the group to make recommendations for the strengthening or extension of community-based sanctions should it so wish.