Charlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 133: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will seek from the Garda authorities confirmation of the number of warrants in respect of addresses in Dublin South-West currently held for execution in Garda stations serving the area in Dublin South-West; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12402/09]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I am informed by the Garda Authorities that on 23 March, 2009 there were 26,365 outstanding warrants where the address of the defendant is in the Garda Divisions of Dublin Metropolitan Region West and Dublin Metropolitan Region South. It should also be borne in mind that the vast majority of outstanding warrants relate to unpaid fines for minor infractions of the law and not convictions arising from violent crime.

Given the enormous transaction level in the District Courts, it is inevitable that, at any given time, there will be a significant number of warrants awaiting execution. I am assured by the Garda authorities that An Garda Síochána give priority to the execution of warrants against those whom 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 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.