Man denies trespass at Laois school

A court heard a previously law abiding man in his mid 50s had accumulated 88 convictions in the past two years. 

William Phelan, 56, of  Paddock, Mountrath appeared in court charged with public intoxication in Lyster Square on May 8 last. He admitted the offence but denied a second charge of trespass at Paddock National School in Mountrath on May 10 last. 

Garda Sergeant said the defendant was discovered asleep in Lyster Square on May 10. He was found to be highly intoxicated when woken and was arrested. 

Sgt Kirby said the defendant has 88 previous convictions and the “vast majority” relate to intoxication. 

Solicitor Barry Fitzgerald said his client was pleading guilty to the public intoxication but denied the charge of trespass. 

Judge John O’Leary suggested the man deal with his issues before he meets an early death. 

“You can bring the horse to the well but you can’t make him drink the water,” Mr Fitzgerald replied. 

Mr Fitzgerald said prior to the past two years, the defendant had been a law abiding citizen. He said the death of the man’s mother may have impacted his behaviour.

Judge O’Leary fined the man €400 and gave him six months to pay. He adjourned the case of alleged trespass to Portlaoise District Court on June 23.