Offaly man was 'a danger to himself and others' at train station

An Offaly man admitted being drunk at a train station when he appeared in Portlaoise District Court.

David McDonagh (30) of 4 Kilamlogue Park, Portarlington, Co Offaly was accused of being intoxicated in public at Portlaoise Train Station on March 24, 2024. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby described the offence as “simple drunkenness” at Portlaoise Train Station at around 9.40pm. 

He said the defendant was arrested as he was “a danger to himself and others” at the station. He said the man had 76 previous convictions. 

The defendant, who appeared via videolink from prison said, “can I just go guilty please your honour.” 

He explained that he was serving a prison sentence and was due to be released in July. 

Solicitor Michael Byrne said his client was a young man.

“Obviously he was incapable of dealing with that level of drink,” he said. Mr Byrne said his client apologises to the court. 

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He said the man was serving a sentence and had no income. 

Judge Susan Fay fined the man €150 and made the fine payable forthwith with five days in default. 

“Thank you very much your honour,” the defendant responded. 

Mr Byrne applied for legal aid which was then granted by Judge Fay. 

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