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16/02/2009
Debt-ridden Developers Targeted By Gangs & Russian Mafia
Irish and East European criminals who are masquerading as debt collectors are targeting debt-ridden developers, according to a Fine Gael TD.
Fine Gael Justice Spokesman Charlie Flanagan TD has warned today that the gangs are using violent and threatening methods, and said there are no laws to stop known criminals entering debt collection
Speaking after the Sunday Tribune revealed that operators with a criminal background have infiltrated the debt-collection industry, Mr Flanagan called for new laws to prevent anyone with a criminal record from working as a debt collector.
"I have learned that a new and dangerous feature has entered business life. Irish underworld elements and Eastern European gangs with links to the Russian mafia have become involved in debt collection," the minister said.
He added: "People have been threatened and intimidated. Property has been vandalised and there have even been physical assaults on people who owe money. I know of one individual who is now under Garda protection."
(DW/JM)
Fine Gael Justice Spokesman Charlie Flanagan TD has warned today that the gangs are using violent and threatening methods, and said there are no laws to stop known criminals entering debt collection
Speaking after the Sunday Tribune revealed that operators with a criminal background have infiltrated the debt-collection industry, Mr Flanagan called for new laws to prevent anyone with a criminal record from working as a debt collector.
"I have learned that a new and dangerous feature has entered business life. Irish underworld elements and Eastern European gangs with links to the Russian mafia have become involved in debt collection," the minister said.
He added: "People have been threatened and intimidated. Property has been vandalised and there have even been physical assaults on people who owe money. I know of one individual who is now under Garda protection."
(DW/JM)
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24 June 2013
FF Publishes Bill To Regulate Debt Collectors
Fianna Fáil has published a Bill to regulate debt collectors and stamp out criminal practices in the sector. The proposals, introduced by the party's Justice Spokesperson Niall Collins, include the establishment of an open register of debt collectors, a code of conduct for all operators and a ban on people with violent criminal convictions.
FF Publishes Bill To Regulate Debt Collectors
Fianna Fáil has published a Bill to regulate debt collectors and stamp out criminal practices in the sector. The proposals, introduced by the party's Justice Spokesperson Niall Collins, include the establishment of an open register of debt collectors, a code of conduct for all operators and a ban on people with violent criminal convictions.
13 September 2011
FF To Tackle Household Debt
The two-day Fianna Fail (FF) strategy meeting continues today with the party leader promising to address household debt. In the new Dail term the party has said they will make a move on creating legislation and a statutory body that will renegotiate household debt for families who are overwhelmed by repayments.
FF To Tackle Household Debt
The two-day Fianna Fail (FF) strategy meeting continues today with the party leader promising to address household debt. In the new Dail term the party has said they will make a move on creating legislation and a statutory body that will renegotiate household debt for families who are overwhelmed by repayments.
14 February 2013
Three Irish Universities Using Debt Collection Agencies
Three Irish universities are using debt collection agencies to try and recover outstanding student fees, the Irish Independent has revealed. Dublin City University (DCU), UCD and University of Limerick are all using the agencies, according to the newspaper.
Three Irish Universities Using Debt Collection Agencies
Three Irish universities are using debt collection agencies to try and recover outstanding student fees, the Irish Independent has revealed. Dublin City University (DCU), UCD and University of Limerick are all using the agencies, according to the newspaper.
03 January 2012
Passengers Not Insuring Gadgets
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Passengers Not Insuring Gadgets
Ryanair have said that 98% of travellers don't have their expensive gadgets insured. The airline advised passengers who received ipads, smartphones and other gadgets for Christmas to ensure they are adequately insured as such items now top thieves’ summer ‘wish lists’.
19 November 2008
Geoghegan Murder Prompts Proposal For Handgun Ban
The Justice Minister has announced plans for a complete ban on the possession of handguns in Ireland, following the drug-gang murder of Shane Geoghegan. Speaking in response to opposition criticism of the Government's tackling of organised crime in the Dáil last night, Dermot Ahern promised new legislation and a crackdown on hand-guns.
Geoghegan Murder Prompts Proposal For Handgun Ban
The Justice Minister has announced plans for a complete ban on the possession of handguns in Ireland, following the drug-gang murder of Shane Geoghegan. Speaking in response to opposition criticism of the Government's tackling of organised crime in the Dáil last night, Dermot Ahern promised new legislation and a crackdown on hand-guns.
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