Sinn Fein Raise Concerns Over Jail Terms For TV Licence Non-Payment

An increase in the number of people jailed for non-payment of the TV licence has been described as "extremely worrying" by Dublin South West Sinn Féin TD Seán Crowe.

Responding to a report that shows some 19 people were ordered to present themselves to Tallaght Garda Station in order to be incarcerated in Mountjoy Prison, Deputy Crowe questioned the use of jail for "victimless" crimes.

Crowe said: "Last week, I am informed that seven people from this locality were issued a summons to be incarcerated in Mountjoy Jail for the non-payment of a television licence and associated fines for 2009/2010 period.

"This week another twelve people are facing a similar fate.

"I believe that many of those heading to jail were not aware that they are entitled to apply for more time to pay their fine either through the court were they were convicted or through the appeals court.

"I am getting reports of people being summoned even though they do not live in the house where the television or radio is alleged to be and in one case where the wife of a wheelchair bound man (who is entitled to a free licence) is also facing jail time.

"I am also aware of a number of cases where people are turning to unlicensed money lenders in order to avoid going to prison.

"It is extremely annoying and upsetting for most people to hear of cases like this and the very real possibility of dangerous and habitual criminals being released early, to facilitate the arrival of these alleged debtors.

"The idea of sending people to jail is an uncomfortable reality but I personally don't believe that sending someone to prison for a victimless crime like the non-payment of a licence does anything to enhance or protect our justice system.

"It is clear that the legislation to allow for structured weekly or monthly payments of these fines needs to be prioritised."

(MH/JP)