Review recommends alternatives to prison for short sentences

The review also proposes judicial discretion to set minimum tariffs for life sentences and examine the effectiveness of use of mandatory minimum sentences for certain crimes

Justice Minister Helen McEntee said that the aim of the review was to ensure that "the crime fits the punishment". Photo: Gareth Chaney/ Collins Photos

Alternatives to imprisonment should be used in many cases where a short sentence is imposed, while more serious crimes will be punishable by longer sentences, under a review of the penal system.

The Government approved the Review of Policy Options for Prison and Penal Reform together with an associated action plan, which makes a number of proposals around sentencing guidelines.