McDowell orders review of 'fines' system
Justice Minister Michael McDowell has ordered a review of the system which deals with the non-payment of fines by members of the public.
Research on the matter found that 1.5% of Irish prison inmates were jailed for not paying fines, with the majority related to motoring offences.
The study found that most of these prisoners are male and unemployed, while a significant number are living in poverty and experiencing life difficulties.
Around half of those jailed for fine default are sentenced to 10 days or less and almost 75% are released within five days.
Mr McDowell’s review will seek a more equitable approach to non-payment of fines and a more efficient use of prison places.
