The Tánaiste has opened up the possibility of convicted robbers having their wages or dole cut to cover the cost of replacing the items they stole from people's homes.

The idea was raised in the Dáil this morning by the Waterford TD John Halligan.

He suggested that judges "be instructed" to order deductions, regardless of means from people's incomes.

Deputy Halligan says this is "destroying people's lives" all over the country and that it is a crime that has gone un-noticed.

Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore says he knows the Minister for Justice has a "very strong personal view in favour of restorative forms of justice and penalties" and he promised to bring it to his attention.

Watch the debate in the Dáil this morning: