29th August 2012
IPRT's Liam Herrick was interviewed by Audrey Carville for RTE's Drivetime programme. Liam argued that any discussion of more effective and appropriate ranges of punishment of white collar crime should be broadened to include an examination of how 'traditional' non-violent crime is sanctioned. Social and media discourse in relation to the use of prison for white collar criminals suggests an acceptance or lack of sympathy when such punishment is handed down every day to 'traditional' offenders. A more equitable criminal justice system must avoid a two-tiered approach, and prison should remain a sanction of last resort.
Respect for rights in the penal system with prison as a last resort.