asked the Minister for Justice the number of mothers of young children currently being held in custody; and if he will consider alternative sentencing policy for such women convicted of minor offences.
Written Answers. - Female Offenders.
11.
Of the 47 female offenders in custody on 4 March 1986 24 are mothers of children under 15 years of age. There are several sanctions available to the courts at present which may be applied as alternatives to a custodial sentence. These include fines, compensation orders, probation orders, peace bonds and community service orders. It is a matter for the courts to decide the appropriate sanction to be applied in each case.