Legislative Programme.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 April 2009

Tuesday, 7 April 2009

Ceisteanna (167)

Michael Creed

Ceist:

167 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on introducing legislation whereby for certain categories of crimes a convicted person found guilty of anti-social behaviour, criminal damage, assault and so on will have a financial penalty imposed on them determined by law whereby they pay on a monthly basis an amount determined in Court to the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14505/09]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

I expect to publish the Fines Bill very shortly. It will include a provision under which the courts will be able to direct that fines, imposed on conviction for criminal offences, be paid in instalments over a 12 month period, or in exceptional circumstances, over a 24 month period.