Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 15 Apr 1997

Vol. 477 No. 5

Written Answers. - Fine Payments.

Brendan Kenneally

Ceist:

257 Mr. Kenneally asked the Minister for Justice the way in which people who do not have a bank account are supposed to pay on-the-spot speeding fines in view of the fact that in most instances Garda stations will only accept payment during working hours; if she will ensure that no action is taken against these motorists who through no fault of their own cannot pay these fines; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9842/97]

Minister for Justice (Mrs. Owen)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the fines concerned may be paid by cash, postal order, bank draft or cheque. Persons who do not have bank accounts may pay by any of the other afore-mentioned methods.

The Deputy must appreciate that, given the payment options available, there could be no question of special treatment for offenders who fail to pay because they do not have a bank account.