Criminal Justice Bill Must Reform Sentencing Practices-O'Brien

Criminal Justice Bill Must Reform Sentencing Practices

Responding to the news that 6,681 people were imprisoned for non-payment of fines last year, Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Jonathan O’Brien TD has said the new Criminal Justice Bill must reform sentencing practices.

Deputy O’Brien said:

“It is scandalous that up to half of those sentenced to prison are there for non-payment of fines, while a convicted drug dealer can escape with a suspended sentence, and the corrupt bankers who have brought ruin to our country are not even before the courts.”

“Sentencing policy in Ireland is badly in need of reform. The Criminal Justice (Community Service) Bill which is currently before the Oireachtas provides us with the opportunity to do just this. Sinn Féin broadly welcomes this bill, but wants to see its provisions strengthened to ensure that community service orders are used as widely as possible for minor offences including non-payment of fines.”

“Concurrently, we need to reform sentencing policy to ensure that the serious criminals who ought to be behind bars are put there.”

For further information contact Deputy Jonathan O’Brien @ 085-2133907