Laois footballers in court over incident after Tailteann Cup defeat

Two Laois footballers, who are also prominent players for their club Portarlington, appeared in court over a public order incident in Portlaoise following their defeat to Down. 

Paddy O’Sullivan, 27, of 7 Barrow View Portarlington and Robert Pigott, 26, of 18 Barrow View, Portarlington, were each charged with being abusive and intoxicated at Main Street in Portlaoise on June 26 last. 

Garda Sergeant Michael Tarpey said gardai were called to an argument outside a premises at Lower Main Street in Portlaoise shortly before 2am on the date in question. He said they found Mr O’Sullivan in an intoxicated state and he was arrested. 

Sgt Tarpey said the accused called gardai afterwards and apologised, was genuinely remorseful and had no previous convictions.   

Solicitor Barry Fitzgerald said his client played sport at a high level and is an officer in the army. He said the man had gone out after the match and “too much to drink” but was remorseful when he came to his senses. 

Judge Andrew Cody asked Mr Fitzgerald what sport his client played?

“Gaelic Football, he is playing with his county Judge,” said Mr Fitzgerald. 

"Laois, they were beaten by Down that day,” he added. 

“You told me he played sport at a high level,” Judge Cody exclaimed as the courtroom erupted in laughter.

Mr Fitzgerald said the incident has resulted in “public humiliation” for his client. 

“This is unlikely to happen again,” Mr Fitzgerald said. 

He said the accused had written letters of apology to staff at the premises and was remorseful. 

Noting his remorse and guilty plea, Judge Cody said he would strike out the charges if €500 was paid to the poor box. 

Sgt Tarpey said Mr Pigott was also a footballer for Laois. 

“He was his wingman on the night,” said Sgt Tarpey. 

He explained that shortly before 2am there was “an altercation and argument” over “something that someone said” and the defendant was arrested. He said he was very apologetic afterwards and he has no previous convictions.

“There were too many drinks consumed. That was obvious,” said Solicitor Philip Meagher. 

“His colleague was having an argument with security staff,” he said. Mr Meagher said his client “thought he was coming to his aid” on the night. 

He said the man had written a letter of apology and brought €300 to court. 

He said the defendant was a very fit young man who wouldn’t normally be drinking at all, he remarked.   

Judge Andrew Cody said he would strike out the charges on condition the defendant paid €500 to the court poor box.