A new research study published today by the Minister for Justice, Mr McDowell, advises against the imprisonment of persons for non-payment of fines.
Entitled Imprisonment for Fine Default and Civil Debt, the study was carried out to provide information for proposals for an Enforcement of Fines Bill.
The purpose of the bill is to free up prison spaces by finding alternative ways of enforcing fines.
According to the study offenders tend not to have the capacity to pay the fines, especially if they have to be paid in full or if there has been an accumulation of fines.
It also stated that payment by installments or community service was cited by interviewees as being preferable to imprisonment.
Welcoming the report the Minister said "I have no doubt that it is time now for a review of the system by which we enforce fines."
