Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
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Question 218: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of warrants currently outstanding in the Coolock garda district, Dublin 1, as of 4 February 2009; the number of warrants in each category which are outstanding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5173/09]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I am informed by the Garda Authorities that the following table shows the number of bench, committal and penal warrants outstanding in the Coolock Garda District as of 8 February, 2009.

Given the enormous transaction level in the District Courts, it is inevitable that, at any given time, there will be a significant number of bench warrants awaiting execution. It should also be borne in mind that the vast majority of outstanding penal and bench warrants relate to unpaid fines for minor infractions of the law and not convictions arising from violent crime. I am assured by the Garda authorities that An Garda Síochána give priority to the execution of warrants against those that they believe to be involved in serious crime.

I am further informed that the Garda authorities are committed to strengthening the warrants enforcement process. The issue of the execution of warrants, and bench warrants in particular, has been raised by the Garda Commissioner with each Regional Assistant Commissioner and a range of measures, aimed at reducing the number of warrants on hand, have been identified and are being implemented. These measures include the re-assignment of additional Gardaí to this function and the appointment of Inspectors with responsibility for execution of outstanding warrants. The position is being closely monitored by senior Garda management and consideration will be given, at an organisational level, to introducing further measures to address the issue if necessary.

In addition, I intend to seek Government approval for a Fines Bill which will provide for the payment of fines by instalment and an improved means of assessing the capacity of a person to pay a fine. As so many warrants relate to financial penalties, these proposals should result in a smaller number of warrants being issued and so reduce pressure on the system. I am also looking at other legislative measures in this area.

I can assure the Deputy that the operation of the warrants system will continue to be monitored, particularly with a view to making whatever changes may be necessary to improve its operation.