Two in court over alleged Laois pub assault

Two men appeared in court accused of assaulting each other in a pub in Portlaoise. 

Finbar O’Rourke (49) of 99 Laurel Drive, Esker Hills, Portlaoise and Shane O’Connor (23) of 1 Wilton House, Portarlington are each accused of assault causing harm at EJ Morrissey’s, Market Square, Portlaoise on June 18, 2023.  

Solicitor Philip Meagher representing Mr O’Rourke requested disclosure to include CCTV footage. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said “it is relatively minor. One allegedly assaulted the other.” 

Judge Nicola Andrews granted disclosure and adjourned the matter back to Portlaoise District Court on November 18.