x.jpg)
Parents, who persistently refuse to send their children to school, face a swingeing increase in fines and could be worse off by £5000.
Persistent truancy is a real problem, the Department of Education admits.
The move to increase the potential fine five-fold follows criticism that the previous level was inadequate.
Education Minister Anne Craine (pictured) takes a hard line on the issue:
Photo ID requirements could create 'faff' at borders, says Steam Packet boss
DHSC minister 'absolutely committed' to reopening Ramsey hospital
Enterprise minister 'optimistic' following challenging period for tourism sector