Judge says ‘I’m ‘sick to my teeth of people not paying fines’
Portlaoise Courthouse
JUDGE Andrew Cody said he is sick to his teeth of people not paying outstanding fines.
He made the comment at Portlaoise District Court last week when a woman was brought before him for non-payment of fines that were imposed nearly seven years ago.
Catriona Phelan, 11 Churchfield Heights, Castletown had been fined €300 for having no vehicle insurance and €300 for the non-display of an insurance disc on 26 September 2019.
Her barrister Brian Mallon told Judge Cody that his 37-year-old client was not currently in a position pay the fines.
“Seven years on and she hasn’t paid the fines,” said Judge Cody … “not a cent paid”.
Mr Mallon said that if given a few months, Ms Phelan would be in a position to pay the fines “with the help of family members and institutions. She’s asking to allow her one final opportunity”.
Judge Cody said: “I’m sick to my teeth of people coming in here to this court five, six and seven years on, for not paying fines. The fines are imposed based on the person’s ability to pay, their financial circumstances and on their means.”
He went on to remand Ms Phelan on her own bond to 15 May, telling her barrister: “This is her last opportunity. She’s going to pay up after seven years.”
