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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 8 Dec 1998

Vol. 498 No. 1

Written Answers. - Payment of Fines.

Michael P. Kitt

Question:

122 Mr. P. Kitt asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Galway could be prosecuted or fined; and if he will make inquiries to the Dutch authorities on her behalf. [26442/98]

Contrary to Dutch law protecting threatened exotic animals and plant life, this person in August 1998 attempted to export from the Netherlands a piece of coral which was confiscated by customs officials. In November the Dutch customs wrote to her giving her the possibility of avoiding prosecution by paying a fine of 200 guilders, about IR £70, within four weeks. The Dutch authorities have indicated to the embassy in The Hague their willingness to extend by two or three weeks the period within which they will accept payment of the fine but also that they will not drop the matter.

If the fine is not paid by then, the case will be referred to the Public Prosecutor's Office which will, if necessary, bring it to court. I understand that, if that occurs, the fine is likely to be increased by 25 per cent. If it transpires that a fine is imposed by a court the person concerned will be liable to be refused entry to the Netherlands as long as it remains unpaid.
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