Man was drunk at Laois bathing spot

A court heard a man was drunk and making a nuisance of himself at a beauty spot in Laois.

Iurie Gandrabur (26) of 93 Ruanbeg Drive, Ruanbeg Manor, Kildare was arrested for being intoxicated and behaving in a threatening and abusive manner at the Catholes, Ballyfin on August 31, 2024. 

He appeared before Portlaoise District Court where Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby explained that he had to be arrested at the swimming area at around 7.30pm as he was drunk and falling over. He said the defendant had no previous convictions. 

Solicitor Barry Fitzgerald said his client was pleading guilty. He said the man was a Moldovan national who “works sporadically” and had made “a nuisance” of himself on the day. 

“He had copious amounts of whiskey taken on the day,” Mr Fitzgerald explained. 

Judge Nicola Andrews said she would consider striking the offence out if the man makes a €200 donation. She said if it wasn’t paid the defendant would be convicted and fined €500. She adjourned the case back to Portlaoise District Court on December 2 for finalisation.