Justice spokesperson for Sinn Féin Martin Kenny has said that the "correct level of pressure" should be put on those fined to pay up.

Only 23% of court fines given in the first six months of this year have been paid, according to new figures from the Courts Service.

The data shows the courts handed down €9.2 million worth of fines, with the highest collection rate recorded in Clonakility, Co Cork.

'Pressure'

Speaking to Newstalk, Mr Kenny said: "I think at the moment what we see in most cases is that people are levied the fine and then they're given the opportunity to pay it over time."

"There possibly needs to be a greater level of consistency as to ensuring that the correct level of pressure was applied to people."

"I'm not sure if change in legislation is needed for that - they hardly are - but certainly there needs to be a review of the situation as to see how it can be carried out in a more coherent fashion."

Financial difficulties

Mr Kenny also said that there should be greater understanding of why people have been unable to pay their fine.

"Each case is on its own merits and it goes before the courts."

"And indeed, each case in regard to the payment of the fines or adherence to the penalties is also on its own merits", he said.

"There may be some people that are in serious financial difficulties that are unable to pay these fines."

"There may be people who are practically bankrupt and can't meet the fines."

"It is only when their property is sold at some point that the fine will be collected."