Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Section 44 of the Road Traffic Act 2010 provides, as the Deputy said, for the introduction of a third payment option within the fixed charge processing system. Under this mechanism, a person who is served with a summons for a fixed charge offence will have a final opportunity to pay the charge, of an amount 100% greater than the original penalty, not later than seven days before the court date on which the charge is to be heard. If a person takes up this option, proceedings are discontinued and he or she need not attend. The provision is intended to address those circumstances where persons receive a summons but state in court they did not receive the earlier fixed charge notice. Commencement of the section will also make it possible to commence a number of other linked measures designed to improve the enforcement of fixed charge notices.  

A subgroup of the criminal justice working group is continuing to examine how best to bring this provision into effect, including the substantial technical and administrative arrangements required, and has drafted an outline implementation plan, including a preliminary financial analysis. While it is not possible to indicate a precise date for implementation, this matter will be progressed as quickly as possible under the auspices of the working group.

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