The Green Party has published its plans to tackle criminal behaviour.
These include proposing alternatives to custody and more effective community policing.
The party acknowledged that criminal activity takes place throughout Irish society but said a significant proportion occurs in disadvantaged communities.
"Tackling poverty is the key to reducing crime in Ireland. Criminal activity has its roots in social exclusion, poor housing, and low educational attainment. Too many communities are still marginalised by poverty in the 21st century," said Green Party justice spokesperson Ciarán Cuffe.
The party is also seeking to reform the prison system, saying that it was in crisis, and that alternatives to imprisonment needed to be considered.
"We must recognise that prison is not the appropriate punishment for every crime," said Mr Cuffe, citing penal reform in countries such as Finland, Germany and Canada, where suspended sentencing, fines and community service have helped reduce the prison population.
The introduction of antisocial behaviour orders was also criticised, with the Green Party's urban development spokesperson, Cllr Chris O'Leary, saying that they would not address the real issues behind such behaviour.
"The measures allowed for in the Children Act 2001 must be implemented, and proper resources for existing programmes and support services for local communities in need of assistance should be made available without delay," he said.
The party is also seeking greater emphasis on supporting of victims of crime and increased support for fighting domestic violence.