Guilty pleas in connection with attack on two foreign nationals in Portlaoise
Three people were charged in connection with the incident
Three people have pleaded guilty to violent disorder in connection with an attack on two foreign workers in Portlaoise.
Padraig Donagher (21), of 64 St Brigid’s Square, Portarlington, Ali Heffernan (20) of 1 Bridge Street, Portlaoise and Chelsea Keogh (19) of 159 St Brigids Place, Portlaoise each admitted engaging in violent disorder at Lyster Square, Portlaoise on November 8, 2025.
Garda Brian Rogers told the sitting of Portlaoise District Court that the incident occurred at 3am.
“Two workers, non-nationals, were returning to their car and were approached by a number of individuals,” he said.
Garda Rogers said CCTV had shown Mr Donagher striking one of the males and the accused later admitted striking the man. He said photographs and medical reports were available to the court.
He said the other co-accused “responded aggressively and they attacked both of the injured parties” during the incident.
Judge Andrew Cody asked whether any of the three accused had previous convictions. He was told none of the accused had any previous convictions.
He requested a probation and welfare report in relation to each of the accused and also victim impact statements from the two injured parties.
Judge Cody adjourned the case back to Portlaoise District Court on November 9 and he asked that the CCTV of the incident be made available on the day.