EDITOR – I was re-reading an article I kept (16/10/15) called ‘Pay the price’ (new by-law fine amounts).
I agree, but the prices seem very little. They should be enough to make offenders learn, and never repeat the offences. Add on at least R1 000.
Also, a few other fines should be added such as vagrants who make a mess (sick or otherwise) at R2 500, swearing at police when removed (vagrants) at R1 500, verbal abuse at R1 500, fighting with the police when being removed (vagrants) at R2 000, and threatening a woman or child at R2 500.
What happens if the person cannot pay the fine? Perhaps there should be a lock-up amount such as R100 = two weeks, R200 = four weeks etc, or perhaps a stay at a mental institution for a few months, unable to leave unless the psychiatrist gives the word. If SA does that, then we can have a decent country, once more as people get treatment for their problems.
The next problem will be crime. Fines may help a bit, but perhaps mental institutions can ‘cure’ criminals too. What do others think?
Ros
Umbilo
