Madam, – In the latest Garda figures we learn that close to 5,000 people were jailed for the non-payment of fines (Home News, May 29th). In some instances people were strip-searched. These were people who caused no harm or injury to anyone and surely would have been best employed working in the community.
Then we read of criminals, very often after repeated offences, being allowed bail before sentencing and in some cases given time to re-offend. In other cases, apart from some remission following a guilty plea, sentences are reduced before they have even begun!
Is there any place for Hiqa in the whole area of sentencing? As from May 1st, 2011, compulsory competence assurance is being introduced for medical profession. Lawyers might opt to have something similar put in place. – Yours, etc,