Fianna Fáil wants three-year jail term for assaults on elderly

Assaults on elderly people should carry a minimum jail term of three years, Fianna Fáil has demanded.

The party’s justice spokesman, Niall Collins, admitted the move would create a “hierarchy of victims”, but it would be necessary to protect old people, particularly in isolated areas.

Mr Collins said people needed to fear a jail sentence if they attack an elderly person.