It seems that the ordinary sentencing principles do not apply to the offence of disqualified driving.

It might just be a random draw, but people are going from a fine and disqualification to a suspended prison term.

That skips any community-based order, such as probation and community service, and also an intensive correction order.

The important fact is that the way the law is being applied to this offence makes it seem like the courts are essentially saying: “We are not prepared to help you.”

The sentence skips any form of attempt at rehabilitating people.

No wonder people come back before the courts for the same offences.

The community should be very concerned about an attitude that imprisons people before they get some help.

While the decision that prompted this comment is under appeal and will hopefully be set right, everybody needs to be aware of the attitude of the courts to disqualified driving.

An injustice lies in the fact that if you can possess drugs a few times, beat someone up a few times or steal a few times, you are better off than if you drive while disqualified.

Praise our young people

It seems we only hear of young people when they do something wrong.

There are those who don’t listen and don’t learn, but they are few and far between.

I want to personally praise all the young people out there who are law-abiding. Those who just enjoy their youth.

I think all youngsters are treated as guilty till proven innocent when they are out on the streets. This is largely because of the publicity given to the bad ones.

If you’re young and doing your best out there in a difficult world, good on you.

You deserve all of the praise the Coast can give. Your parents should be proud.