FG unveils plan to keep debt defaulters out of jail

FINE GAEL yesterday put forward an alternative to sending people to prison when they have failed to pay a fine or debt.

More than 1,000 people are sent to prison each year for unpaid fines and debts, comprising 20% of all prison committals.

The new Bill, sponsored by Fine Gael justice spokesman Jim O’Keeffe, proposes that those who don’t pay fines or debts get an opportunity to pay by instalments or - if they refuse to pay - have money deducted from their wages or welfare payments.