Prison authorities attacked by judge because solicitors can't get through to clients in jail
Unable to make phone contact to get instructions
A judge has criticised the prison authorities because solicitors or barristers are unable to make phone contact with clients who are in custody.
He was referring to cases where a defendant appears via videolink and their barrister or solicitor had been unable to get through to take instructions.
“Videolink was brought in to make it easier (to progress cases) but it seems to have the opposite effect,” Judge Desmond Zaidan said at Naas District Court.
Before the court was Anthony McBride, 31, whose address was given as 64 Adamstown Avenue, Lucan, who was being prosecuted for driving with excess alcohol on the N7 at Kill West on October 20, 2019.
Defending Donncha Craddock said he had not been able to make contact with him.
“It's not the first time, it’s becoming nearly impossible to get through,” said the judge, adding that the barrister needs to get proper instructions for the client in advance of the case being heard.
Speaking on videolink from Mountjoy Prison, the defendant said he would like to have the case dealt with.
He is serving a four and half year term for a separate offence and is not due for release until August 2026.
The judge imposed a two year driving disqualification.