'I don't speak Arabic' judge tells man accused of Offaly drugs offence

A MAN accused of illegal possession of drugs and a knife was granted legal aid at Tullamore District Court.

“I don't speak English,” Majed Mahumond Ahmcol Hussen (24), White House, Roscrea, Co Tipperary, told Judge Andrew Cody when he appeared before him.

“I don't speak Arabic, who's your solicitor?” Judge Cody replied.

Patrick Martin introduced himself as Mr Hussen's solicitor and said his client did not speak much English.

Mr Martin said there was an application for legal aid and handed in the required form to the judge.

“For a man who can't speak English he's well able to fill out a legal aid application form,” responded Judge Cody.

Mr Martin said Mr Hussen had a friend who helped with the translation for the application. He applied to have an Arabic interpreter in court for the next appearance.

READ NEXT: Offaly man on forgery charges over alleged false registration certificate

The accused was remanded on continuing bail to appear in court again on October 8 next.

He is accused of committing two offences on August 20 last. First, it is alleged he possessed cannabis herb at Tullamore Garda Station and second, he had possession of a knife blade in a public place, which was made or designed to incapacitate a person.