New legislation to provide for means-testing of court fines

The Government has approved the drafting of new Bill which would bring court fines in line with the cost of living.

The Department of Justice says it is the first phase in the process of reforming the law relating to fines.

The Bill aims to update all existing fines in accordance with changes in the consumer price index or the cost of living.

The legislation will also mean those who are penalised will be means assessed to make it easier for them to pay.

Currently, the maximum fine which can be imposed in the district court is €1,904. This is due to increase to €5,000 under the new law.

The main objective of the changes is to end the practice of imprisonment for non-payment of fines and to provide for new ways of enforcing fines.